NGSW:
NEXT GENERATION
SQUAD WEAPON
The Next Generation Squad Weapon is presumably one of the most im-
portant firearms procurement programs in the last decade. Definitely, it is
the most ambitious one. The main consideration of the NGSW is devel-
opment and introduction of the advanced weapon system consisting of
"smart" weapon sight, 6.8mm rifles and 6.8mm lightweight ammuni-
tion. The NGSW should be able to defeat individual ballistic protec-
tion on up to 600 m distance, way over the physical capabilities of
5.56 or 7.62 NATO rounds. The potential success of NGSW might
change the future development of firearms for decades.
STORY: J A N M O S Z C Z U K FOTO: F R A G O U T ! A R C H I V E S
T
he ultimate goal of NGSW is the introduction of an ad-
vanced individual weapon system for the US Army. The
system should consist of two parts, the advanced smart
fire control systems and two new rifles. The NGSW-R is a planned
replacement for the M4A1 assault rifle and the NGSW-AR should
replace the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (aka SAW).
This article focuses on the NGSW firearms proposals from fol-
lowing companies which were down selected for second phase
of program:
Textron Systems (with Heckler & Koch and LMT)
General Dynamics Ordnance & Tactical Systems
(with Beretta USA and Delta P Design)
SIG Sauer
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