Developments in airborne weapons place increasing demands on cover and AA fire. Improved low-altitude flying properties of aeroplanes and improved helicopter performance require a more rapid reaction from AA fire.

Helicopters constitute the most serious aerial threat to troops in combat. They usually operate in flights of two to four aircraft and can use terrain cover when moving towards the target and operating there. Helicopters only break cover when firing at or observing their target. AA machine guns improve the capacity of troops to defend themselves against aerial targets. Cost-effectiveness, simple structure and ease of use enable their widespread deployment.