Previous: F-54: Target Engagements by Types of Targets
F-58. The mission is to impose maximum attrition upon the attacking enemy such as low-flying, low-performance aircraft. Employment of machine guns used for air defense is guided by the following defensive design factors:
- Defensive design should produce an equally balanced defense in all directions, unless a forced route of approach exists.
- Machine guns should be sited so the maximum number of targets can be engaged, continuous fire can be delivered, and likely routes of approach are covered.
- Machine guns used to defend march columns should be interspersed in the convoy, with emphasis on the lead and rear elements. (See figure F-16.)
Next: F-59: Target Selection and Engagement Control
Go Back To: U.S. Army FM 3-21.8: The Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad