What is the basic combat load for the M249 machine gun?

The basic combat load for the M249 machine gun is indeed 1,000 rounds. This number represents the standard amount of ammunition that a soldier is trained and equipped to carry during combat operations to ensure effective fire support while maintaining mobility and operational capability.

Each M249 machine gun is typically fed using a 200-round ammo box, which can be linked together to create longer belts for sustained fire. However, carrying 1,000 rounds allows for multiple boxes to be transported, providing sufficient ammunition for extended engagements without the need for immediate resupply. This capacity is particularly important in combat scenarios, where firepower and the ability to sustain it directly impact mission success and troop safety.

The other options fall short of the officially recognized standard load, which ensures soldiers have access to an adequate amount of ammunition to operate effectively in a variety of combat situations.