Machine-Gun Tactics

by R. V. K. Applin

IN THE PURSUIT

There are many instances in war when cavalry flushed with victory and exhausted in the pursuit have been themselves caught and ridden down by troops that have rallied or by fresh supports; but machine guns have nothing to fear from cavalry, and can confidently await their attack while covering the retirement of their own cavalry. The longer they are in action, the more time there is for their own horses to recover their “wind,” and be ready to carry their guns out of action at a speed which renders pursuit useless. It must be remembered also that the machine guns with cavalry cannot be distinguished from that arm at a distance even when moving alone, while it is impossible to do so when they are with their regiment or brigade.

The machine guns must anticipate the pursuit and race off to positions on the flanks and rear from which they can best cut off, and if possible annihilate, the retreating squadrons; no effort must be spared to inflict the maximum loss, and guns must be pushed up to close range even at the risk of being ridden down.

The troops reserved for the pursuit should have their machine guns with them, as their co-operation will be of the greatest service, and regiments will probably act separately, and may be directed to special points to intercept the enemy or prevent reinforcements coming up.

The Independent Cavalry, having defeated and scattered the enemy’s cavalry, are now in a position to send out strategical patrols; and having “torn aside the veil” are able to see the dispositions of his main armies, and are free to undertake raids on his communications and to harass and delay the march of his columns.

Raids are only justified when some specific object can be attained, and are only likely to be effective during the course of operations, when both armies are in touch and awaiting reinforcements to renew hostilities.

The cavalry will in most cases be more profitably employed in attacking the enemy’s main columns in flank or rear, and thus hindering their march by causing premature deployment. This action will bring the independent cavalry in contact with infantry. The machine guns can now be used to supplement the fire action and to enable as many squadrons as possible to remain mounted. They should be employed as separate units or attached to squadrons according to the nature of the engagement and the force to which they are opposed. Usually they will be held back in the preliminary stages of the dismounted fight, until the action has developed sufficiently to enable the general situation to be seen, when they will be sent forward under cover to positions from which they can develop superiority of fire, by concentrating against the enemy’s strongest points. This will not prevent the use of a few guns with the advanced guard to seize and hold important points, and nothing should prevent machine guns from seizing the key of the position, the moment this can be discovered.

The four batteries of machine guns of the Division may be allotted as follows: With the advanced guard, one battery; with the main body (for use in firing line), two batteries; with the G.O.C. (in reserve), one battery.