Which rotary-wing attack tactic is performed when the aircraft is stationary or has little forward motion?

Hovering fire is a tactic used in rotary-wing attack operations when the aircraft maintains a stationary position or exhibits minimal forward motion. This method allows the aircraft to remain within a localized area while engaging targets, making it particularly effective for precision strikes against specific enemy positions or for providing close air support.

By hovering, the aircraft can take advantage of its ability to accurately deliver fire while minimizing the risk of being targeted by ground defenses. This tactic can also afford the pilots greater control over their engagement and the ability to observe the effects of their fire in real time. The positioning of the aircraft in a hover is key to maintaining visual contact with the ground situation, thereby enhancing situational awareness and allowing for a more precise application of firepower.

In contrast, running fire typically involves the aircraft flying at a higher speed with some forward motion, while a strafing run is characterized by rapid passes in a straight line over a target. Direct fire may imply engaging a target head-on but does not specifically denote the stationary aspect that hovering fire does.