Browsers such as Firefox and Chromium nowadays redirect the target= links to open new tabs.

I would argue that, while better than allowing the creation of a new window, this is not the best solution.

Target=_blank and the like are nonsensical, unwanted* behavior imposed upon users. While geeks may be used to tabbed navigation, surprisingly many "joe plumber" users don't use tabs _at all_ and don't even notice their existence (from many field observations).

Creating a new tab for them is adding confusion and possibly breaks the flow of Previous/Next history buttons.

Users want to be in control of their workflow, not having their workflow being controlled by the website. I would suggest we enforce staying inside the current tab unless the user explicitely asks for a new tab (middle-click, right-click, ctrl/shift click, etc.).


*: http://www.trilithium.com/johan/2005/03/target-blank/