What is the philosophy of "covering fire" in machine gun tactics?

The philosophy of "covering fire" in machine gun tactics centers on the importance of suppressing enemy positions. By doing this, troops can maneuver more safely and effectively. The machine gun provides a high volume of fire, which helps to keep the enemy's heads down and disrupt their ability to return fire or coordinate their own movements. This creates a tactical advantage, as friendly forces can advance or reposition without facing immediate retaliation.

This tactic is vital during assaults or flanking movements, where keeping the enemy occupied and unable to respond adequately can determine the success of a military operation. Employing machine guns to provide covering fire enhances the overall effectiveness of infantry maneuvers on the battlefield.