Which type of machine gun fire is characterized by hitting the target from the side?

Flanking fire is characterized by engaging a target from the side rather than directly head-on. This approach offers several tactical advantages, such as reducing the target's ability to return fire effectively and allowing for a more unobstructed line of sight for the shooter. By attacking the target from the flanks, the shooter can often exploit vulnerabilities in the target's defenses and create confusion among enemy forces.

This type of engagement is especially effective in scenarios where the enemy is concentrated in a specific location, as it can break their formation and disrupt their plans. Additionally, using flanking fire in conjunction with other forms of fire can maximize overall effectiveness on the battlefield, making it a critical tactic in machine gun employment.

In contrast, the other options—oblique fire, enfilade fire, and fixed fire—refer to different tactics and angles of engagement that do not specifically emphasize hitting from the side. Understanding these distinctions enhances a soldier's ability to choose the most effective firing technique according to the tactical situation.