What does "covering fire" achieve in a squad operation?

Covering fire plays a crucial role in squad operations by effectively suppressing enemy fire. This strategic action allows squad members to maneuver safely without being exposed to direct threats from enemy positions. By engaging the enemy and keeping their heads down, covering fire creates the necessary conditions for movement, repositioning, or planning a coordinated attack. This tactical maneuverability is essential in maintaining the initiative during combat scenarios, as it enables the squad to engage or disengage according to the demands of the situation.

The effectiveness of covering fire lies in its ability to distract and limit the enemy's reaction time, which enhances the overall operational effectiveness of the squad. By providing a protective barrier of suppressive fire, squad members can move more freely, conduct flanking maneuvers, or reposition for more advantageous combat engagements.