What key aspect does "Support by Fire" focus on in military tactics?

"Support by Fire" is a tactical maneuver employed in military operations that primarily focuses on providing direct support to maneuvering forces. This concept involves one unit engaging the enemy, thereby suppressing or neutralizing threats while another unit maneuvers to a more advantageous position or executes a decisive action. The unit delivering the support typically relies on a combination of indirect or direct fire to create an effective covering force, allowing the maneuvering forces to operate with reduced risk from enemy fire.

In this context, the effectiveness of "Support by Fire" is crucial for enabling other units to advance, conduct re-deployments, or execute flanking maneuvers without facing significant opposition. The provision of fire support requires accurate coordination and communication, ensuring that fire is directed strategically to cover the movements or actions of the units that are advancing or engaging the enemy directly.

While options such as securing a position from potential threats or engaging in close combat with the enemy may relate to broader tactical maneuvers, they do not encapsulate the focused intent of "Support by Fire," which is specifically about the coordination of fire to support maneuver. Establishing communication lines, while essential in military operations, is a different aspect of logistics and command than the direct engagement and tactical application of fire support