What distinguishes direct fire from indirect fire?

The distinction between direct fire and indirect fire primarily revolves around how the weapon system is aimed and deployed. Direct fire involves aiming and targeting directly at the intended target, utilizing a line of sight. This means that the gunner can see the target and align the weapon's sights directly on it, which typically occurs at shorter ranges where the trajectory of the projectile follows a relatively flat path.

On the other hand, indirect fire involves firing projectiles at a target that is not visible to the gunner. This method requires the use of a projectile arc, meaning the shell or round is shot at a high angle, allowing it to travel over obstacles and land on targets located beyond the gunner's line of sight. Indirect fire is often employed in situations where direct engagement is not possible due to terrain, cover, or distance from the target.

Understanding this difference is crucial for proper application in tactical situations, as each method serves distinct operational purposes and requires different training and expertise.