What is an advantage of using the M240 over infantry rifles?

The M240 machine gun is designed to provide sustained automatic fire, a significant advantage over standard infantry rifles. This capability allows it to deliver a high volume of fire over an extended period, making it especially effective in suppressing enemy positions and providing support for infantry maneuvers. The continuous fire capability ensures that troops can maintain pressure on the enemy, which can be crucial in combat situations where overwhelming force is necessary.

In contrast, infantry rifles typically fire in semi-automatic or automatic modes but do not sustain fire for as long due to overheating or ammunition constraints. Therefore, the M240’s design enables it to deliver greater stopping power and maintain a dominant presence on the battlefield, contributing to its effectiveness in military operations. The advantages of sustained firepower are particularly evident in scenarios where rapid and continuous fire can change the course of an engagement.