What is the primary role of the M240 machine gun?

The primary role of the M240 machine gun is to provide sustained support fire. This weapon is designed to deliver a high volume of fire over an extended period, making it effective for suppression of enemy forces and protecting friendly troops. The M240 can be mounted on various platforms including vehicles and tripods, allowing for versatile deployment in various combat situations. Its belt-fed mechanism enables continuous firing, which is essential in suppressing enemy movements and providing cover for ground troops during assaults or defensive operations. This capability distinguishes it decisively from other roles, such as serving as a sniper weapon, which requires precision and range rather than sustained fire, or crowd control, which typically involves less lethal options. Additionally, the M240 is not a sidearm but a crew-served weapon meant for team-based operations, contributing to its primary function of delivering effective, sustained fire support on the battlefield.