What is the function of a machine gun in an Infantry unit?

The function of a machine gun in an Infantry unit primarily revolves around providing suppressive fire to support maneuvering units. This capability is essential for maintaining battlefield control and enabling infantry forces to advance or reposition without suffering significant casualties.

Machine guns deliver a high volume of fire, which serves to inhibit the enemy's ability to shoot accurately and maneuver effectively. This suppressive fire creates a tactical advantage by forcing adversaries to keep their heads down, allowing friendly forces to execute movements, flank the enemy, or secure positions.

While covering fire during a retreat is a tactical maneuver, the overarching role of machine guns goes beyond that and encompasses broader offensive and defensive support. Additionally, machine guns are not designed to replace traditional rifles; rather, they complement them by enhancing the unit's overall firepower. Gathering intelligence, although a critical part of military operations, is not a primary function of machine guns, which are strictly offensive and defensive weapons. Thus, the emphasis on suppressive fire accurately captures the quintessential role of machine guns in an Infantry unit.