What type of machine gun fire would typically be used against an advancing enemy?

Flanking fire is particularly effective against an advancing enemy because it allows the machine gun to engage the target from the side, where the enemy may have less cover and less ability to return fire effectively. This position enhances the element of surprise and maximizes the gun's rate of fire on the enemy as they advance, creating a higher likelihood of inflicting casualties and halting their movement.

When a machine gun is positioned to deliver flanking fire, it can cover a wider area of the enemy's advance and exploit gaps in their formation, creating a tactical advantage. This type of engagement not only disrupts the enemy's movement but also can demoralize them when they face an unexpected assault from their sides.

In contrast, other types of fire like frontal fire might expose the gunner to direct enemy fire, while enfilade fire is most effective when targeting a troop column in a linear formation rather than an advancing unit. Oblique fire can provide some advantages, but it typically does not maximize the effectiveness against a moving target in the same way that flanking fire does.