Under what condition can leaders initiate depth fires?

Leaders can initiate depth fires effectively when targets are displaced in depth perpendicular to the unit. This condition allows for optimal engagement because depth fires are designed to hit targets that are spread out or moving in a direction that requires accurate targeting from a distance, minimizing the risk of fratricide while maximizing the impact on enemy forces. By engaging targets in this manner, leaders can ensure they are utilizing their resources effectively and maintaining the overall operational tempo.

The other conditions listed do not align as well with the purpose of depth fires. Stationary targets may be engaged in different ways and typically don't require the specific depth engagement strategy that is most effective when targets are displacing. Engaging an enemy retreat may not necessitate depth fires, as the focus could shift to direct fire applications. Covering a wide area of attack is more aligned with area suppression rather than targeted depth engagement, as depth fires are specifically focused on targets in a defined space rather than on general area coverage.