Describe the role of fire teams within a rifle squad.

Fire teams are integral to the effectiveness of a rifle squad as they represent the basic fighting units tasked with maneuvering and engaging targets during operations. Their primary responsibility is to provide a balanced combination of offensive and defensive capabilities, leveraging their members' skills and weapon systems to execute tactical maneuvers effectively.

Each fire team typically consists of two to four soldiers, who operate cohesively to establish a tactical advantage on the battlefield. They conduct actions such as suppressing enemy fire, conducting flanking movements, and coordinating to achieve fire superiority. This allows the rifle squad as a whole to operate more effectively in combat situations.

The focus on maneuver and engagement ensures that fire teams can respond swiftly to changes in the battlefield dynamics, allowing them to adapt their tactics to capitalize on opportunities or address threats as they arise. This core function is vital for maintaining the overall combat effectiveness of the squad.