What critical skill must machine gunners develop for effective fire support?

Precision in aiming and firing is a fundamental skill that machine gunners must master to provide effective fire support. This precision ensures that rounds hit the intended target consistently, which is crucial for mission success and minimizing collateral damage. When machine gunners can accurately aim and fire their weapon systems, they can effectively engage enemy forces while supporting friendly troops.

Moreover, the ability to maintain precision under varying conditions, such as distance, wind, and moving targets, is essential. This skill requires not only technical knowledge of the weapon system but also practice and familiarity to adjust for these variables. Fire discipline, proper sight adjustments, and understanding the ballistics of the ammunition being used all contribute to achieving the necessary accuracy when delivering fire support.

While other skills such as patience or strength are beneficial in certain contexts, none are as critical to the primary mission of engaging targets as the precision in aiming and firing. Operating without communication can also be a tactical advantage, but it cannot replace the need for accurate fire support to achieve desired objectives.