What is the primary purpose of the M240?

The primary purpose of the M240 machine gun is to provide support fire against personnel. This versatile weapon is designed for sustained automatic fire, making it effective for engaging enemy troops across a variety of combat scenarios. Its capability to deliver a high volume of fire at a relatively high rate allows it to suppress enemy positions, protect advancing troops, and support maneuver elements on the battlefield.

The M240's design incorporates features that enhance its effectiveness as a support weapon, such as its reliability, accuracy, and ability to fire various types of ammunition, including armor-piercing rounds. This makes it suitable for use in multiple operational environments, where suppressive fire is essential for achieving tactical advantages.

While the M240 can be utilized in various roles, including anti-vehicle operations to some extent, its primary intent is not specialized for that purpose or for close-quarter combat, which typically requires different weapons optimized for such engagements. Additionally, while it can be used in training scenarios for target practice, that does not reflect its primary purpose in military operations.