What does 'fire control' refer to in a military context?

In a military context, 'fire control' specifically refers to the ability to direct the unit's fire effectively towards a target. This involves not only determining when to engage the enemy but also coordinating the use of different types of weapons systems to maximize effectiveness while minimizing risks to friendly forces and non-combatants. Proper fire control ensures that all elements of a unit understand their roles in delivering effective fire support, managing ammunition expenditures, and adjusting fire based on the dynamics of the battlefield.

Misunderstandings of fire control can lead to disorganized attacks, friendly fire incidents, and overall ineffective use of combat resources. Therefore, it is a critical function within squad operations that directly impacts the success of a mission.