Which of the following is the longest effective range for the M249 when targeting area threats with a tripod?

The M249 machine gun, particularly when mounted on a tripod, is designed to deliver sustained fire with a high degree of accuracy within extended ranges. The effective range for targeting area threats with the M249 is significantly influenced by its design capabilities and the type of ammunition used.

When deployed on a tripod, the M249 can effectively engage targets up to 1000 meters, making it capable of maintaining accuracy and lethality at that distance, especially when aiming at area targets. This range is established based on the operational doctrines that utilize the M249, which consider maximum effective firing ranges during field operations.

Using a tripod also allows for enhanced stability and reduced recoil, contributing to the increased effective range due to improved accuracy in sustained fire scenarios. As such, while the other range options may seem plausible, the 1000-meter mark stands out as the correct choice for the longest effective range when targeting area threats, underscoring the capabilities of the M249 in a support role.