Firing a weapon at concealed areas without a visible or specific target is generally referred to as suppressive fire. This tactic involves creating a volume of fire that forces opponents to keep their heads down, hindering their movement and ability to return fire effectively. A common example would be troops firing at a treeline or building where enemy presence is suspected but not confirmed.
Suppressive fire plays a significant role in various combat scenarios. It can protect advancing units, allow for casualty evacuation, or disrupt enemy attacks. Historically, the increased firepower of automatic weapons in the late 19th and early 20th centuries made suppressive fire a more viable and frequently employed tactic. While effective, it also consumes large quantities of ammunition and may pose a risk to non-combatants if not employed judiciously. The ethical implications and strategic value of such actions remain subjects of ongoing discussion among military professionals.
