What is the purpose of an Attack by Fire mission?

The purpose of an Attack by Fire mission is to engage an enemy force without closing in on them, thereby allowing for the destruction or neutralization of enemy units from a distance. This is achieved using direct or indirect fire assets, such as artillery or aviation, which can deliver firepower effectively while keeping friendly forces out of the range of the enemy’s most direct countermeasures.

This strategy is advantageous in situations where moving closer to the enemy could expose friendly forces to danger or make them vulnerable to counterattacks. It allows for the preservation of troop safety while still applying significant combat power to diminish the enemy’s capability. This effective use of firepower is critical for shaping the battlefield and can support broader operational objectives without requiring a riskier close engagement.

The other options do not align with the primary goal of an Attack by Fire mission. Establishing a defensive position relates to preserving and maintaining control of an area, gathering intelligence focuses on observing and collecting data on enemy actions, and providing supplies relates to logistics rather than direct engagement in combat. Each of these is essential in different contexts, but they do not encapsulate the offensive focus of an Attack by Fire mission.