Which of the following are characteristics of the M240 medium machine gun?

The M240 medium machine gun is a versatile and widely used weapon known for its distinct operational features. Being belt fed means it uses a belt of ammunition, allowing for sustained fire without the need for frequent reloading, which is critical in combat scenarios. It is air cooled, which refers to the cooling method employed during firing, where air circulation helps to dissipate heat generated by rapid firing, ensuring the weapon does not overheat and remains operational.

The term "gas operated" indicates that the M240 uses the gas generated from firing a round to cycle its action, which enhances reliability and performance. Importantly, the M240 is classified as fully automatic, meaning it can fire continuously as long as the trigger is held down. It operates from an open bolt design, which contributes to the weapon's cooling and reliability by allowing the chamber to remain clear of a round until it is fired.

Together, these characteristics—being belt fed, air cooled, gas operated, fully automatic, and firing from an open bolt—make the M240 a robust and dependable machine gun, suitable for various military applications. This combination of features is what differentiates it from other options, such as a manually operated or single-shot weapon.