Definition

1. Noun:
   • Fire delivered in support of part of a force: This term refers to a specific type of military fire support. It is artillery or other firepower directed to aid a particular, engaged unit or element of a larger force. It is distinguished from general supporting fire, which supports the entire force as a whole.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The infantry company requested direct supporting fire to suppress the enemy position on the hill.
  • Effective coordination is essential for delivering accurate direct supporting fire to the forward platoon.

Advanced Usage

• "to call for/request direct supporting fire": to ask for this specific type of fire support.
  • The commander called for direct supporting fire to cover their advance.
• "to provide/deliver direct supporting fire": to execute this type of fire mission.
  • The artillery battalion was tasked with providing direct supporting fire to the armored brigade's flank.

Variants and Related Words

• General supporting fire (n): Fire delivered in support of the entire force, not a specific part of it.
  • The long-range artillery provided general supporting fire across the entire front.
• Close support (n): A broader term for air or fire support delivered close to friendly forces.
• Fire support (n): The general use of weapons to support ground, air, or naval units.

Synonyms

• Targeted fire support: Fire support aimed at assisting a specific unit.
• Unit-specific fire: Fire directed to aid a particular unit.

Related Phrases

• In direct support of: A phrase describing the relationship where a supporting unit (like artillery) is assigned to aid a specific supported unit.
  • The battery was placed in direct support of the 1st Battalion.

Noun

1. fire delivered in support of part of a force (as opposed to general supporting fire delivered in support of the force as a whole)