What is a primary factor of success in machine gun crew drills?

Coordination and communication among crew members is the primary factor of success in machine gun crew drills because these elements ensure that all personnel are working in unison towards a common objective. In a machine gun crew, multiple roles must be effectively executed simultaneously; for instance, one member may operate the gun, while others manage ammunition supply or provide security.

Effective communication allows for timely updates on conditions such as changes in enemy movement or the need for ammunition, and coordination ensures that each crew member knows their specific responsibilities and can execute them efficiently. This unity of effort significantly increases the crew's overall effectiveness and responsiveness in a combat situation.

While skills in reloading, individual marksmanship, and knowledge of enemy tactics play important roles in the overall effectiveness of a crew, they cannot outweigh the necessity of seamless teamwork. Without excellent coordination and communication, even the most skilled individuals may falter in their operations during critical moments of engagement.