What is the maximum effective range of the M249 machine gun?

The maximum effective range of the M249 machine gun is indeed 3600 meters. This range indicates the distance at which the weapon can effectively deliver accurate fire against a target in a given setting. The M249 is a light machine gun designed for automatic fire, and its effective range allows it to provide suppressive fire and support infantry units over considerable distances on the battlefield.

While the M249 can technically be fired at distances beyond this range, such as the longer distances mentioned in other options, those figures are generally considered the maximum range for the weapon's projectile, not an effective one for combat scenarios. Effective range is determined by a combination of factors, including accuracy and the ability to hit a target reliably, which diminishes significantly beyond 3600 meters.