Which is NOT a principle of machine gun employment in defense?

In the context of machine gun employment in defense, each machine gun is designed to function in coordination with other elements and supports the overall defense strategy. The principle that every machine gun operates independently is not aligned with standard practices, as machine guns typically work in a manner that integrates their fire capabilities with those of other weapons and units.

The principles of machine gun employment emphasize teamwork and coordination. For instance, the notion that all other weapons support the machine guns underscores the importance of integrating fire support to bolster the effectiveness of machine guns. Furthermore, having primary, alternate, and supplementary positions allows for flexibility in deployment and continuity of fire, which is critical in defensive operations. Lastly, being easily controllable by a commander highlights the command and control aspect, ensuring that the machine guns can be repositioned and utilized effectively to respond to changing battlefield conditions.

In summary, the collaborative nature of machine gun operations in defense is crucial for maximizing their effectiveness, indicating that the assertion of each machine gun operating independently does not align with the fundamental principles of effective machine gun employment.