What is the mission of the machine gun section in the offense?

The mission of the machine gun section in the offense is to support by fire the advance of rifle platoons. This role is crucial as it allows the machine gun section to deliver effective, suppressive fire on enemy positions, enabling infantry units to move safely and engage the enemy with reduced risk. By creating a suppressive fire effect, the machine gun section facilitates maneuverability for the subordinate units, allowing them to advance toward the objective while the enemy is kept occupied and unable to effectively respond.

This support function is a key element of combined arms operations, where different units work together to achieve a common goal. The machine gunners can cover the advance of the rifle squads or platoons by engaging any observed enemy threats, thus providing protection and momentum for the offensive operation. Their ability to sustain fire over a longer duration and at a higher volume complements the direct assault capabilities of infantry forces, ensuring that the assault can progress with diminished resistance from the enemy.