Fire support

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Fire Support is a military term referring to long-range firepower provided to a front-line unit. Typically, fire support is provided by artillery or close air support, though on some occasions it may be provided by a sniper, and is used to soften or weaken the enemy before or during an assault.

A prime example of is the use of artillery to bombard enemy infantry and trenches before an infantry assault during World War I. Ideally, the artillery kills and disorganizes many of the enemy, allowing for a successful assault with fewer casualties.