What provides the best cover from kinetic energy direct-fire munitions?

Natural or man-made defilade offers the best cover from kinetic energy direct-fire munitions because it involves terrain features such as hills, dips, or constructed barriers that can block or significantly reduce the impact of projectiles. The effectiveness of defilade comes from its ability to change the line of sight between the munition's source and the target, effectively concealing individuals or equipment behind the cover. This kind of protection is particularly important in military contexts, where the force of impact from kinetic energy munitions can be devastating.

In contrast, wooden barricades provide limited protection as they may not be thick or strong enough to withstand high-velocity rounds. Open terrain exposes individuals to direct fire without any shielding, making it highly vulnerable. Portable shields, while offering some level of protection, generally cannot provide the extensive cover that natural or man-made defilade can offer, especially when considering the scope and scale of military engagements.