Reconnaissance by fire is a military tactic employed to collect information about the enemy's presence, location, and strength by engaging them with gunfire or artillery strikes. It is also known as "firing on likely targets" or "shoot and assess." This approach is often used when the exact location of enemy forces is uncertain, and the goal is to provoke a response or reveal their positions through the reaction of gunfire.
The objective of reconnaissance by fire is to assess the enemy's response and to gain useful intelligence without committing to a full-fledged engagement. By firing upon suspected enemy positions, military forces can gather valuable information, such as the enemy's location, strength, defensive positions, or potential avenues of approach. The intensity and accuracy of the enemy's response often provide important clues to their capabilities and intentions.
This tactic can be employed in various combat scenarios, including ground, air, or naval operations. It requires a coordinated effort between observation and firepower units, where teams must work together to manipulate enemy reactions and maximize the collection of relevant data.
Reconnaissance by fire is employed to reduce uncertainty on the battlefield, allowing military commanders to make informed decisions before committing their forces. This method enables them to identify potential threats, plan subsequent operations, and exploit enemy weaknesses. Overall, reconnaissance by fire serves as a vital tool in gathering valuable intelligence during military operations.
