What type of fire is delivered when the target is oriented 90 degrees or more away from the firing unit?

The type of fire delivered when the target is oriented 90 degrees or more away from the firing unit is known as flanking fire. This positioning allows the gunner to engage a target from the side, which is often advantageous because it can catch the target off-guard and can exploit any weaknesses in their defensive posture.

In a flanking position, the gunner is able to leverage the element of surprise and potentially achieve greater accuracy and lethality. The target being 90 degrees or more away means that the fire is not being directed straight on but rather from the side, enabling the firing unit to use cover and concealment effectively while also maximizing the angle of attack.

This concept is critical in tactical scenarios, as it emphasizes the importance of positioning and angles of fire when engaging targets. Understanding flanking shots can significantly impact the outcome of engagements, making them an essential tactic in machine gun employment.