Texas-based ammunition and weapon system manufacturer True Velocity Ammo and FN America, a global leader in the development and manufacture of military small arms, have announced a strategic licensing and manufacturing partnership for the production of True Velocity’s .338 Norma Lightweight Medium Machine Gun for U.S. and Allied military units.

The partnership positions FN America as a primary manufacturer of True Velocity’s .338 Norma machine gun, a recoil-mitigated weapon system designed to provide warfighters with range and terminal performance similar to that of the century-old .50-caliber M2 machine gun in a lightweight, functional profile comparable to that of the ubiquitous M240 machine gun also manufactured by FN America.

“True Velocity’s .338 machine gun will change the battlefield for our warfighters. We are thrilled that FN will join with us so we can equip U.S. and Allied militaries with this combat advantage,” said True Velocity President and Chief Intellectual Property Officer Craig Etchegoyen. “It very quickly became clear that FN is a world-renowned, reliable, and respected manufacturer of innovative machine guns, and we’re excited for them to join our mission.”

A lightweight machine gun solution chambered for the .338 Norma cartridge has been a focal point of requirements emerging from the U.S. Department of Defense and Allied militaries in recent years. In March 2024, the United States Department of Defense selected True Velocity’s .338 Norma Lightweight Medium Machine Gun for continued evaluation in a military program aimed at fielding a weapon system that would bridge the performance gap between the .50-caliber M2 machine gun and the M240 machine gun chambered for 7.62x51mm NATO. The combination of True Velocity’s recoil-mitigated .338 Norma Lightweight Medium Machine Gun and its advanced, lightweight composite-cased ammunition provides a turn-key combat solution capable of enhanced controllability, maximized maneuverability, and extreme precision at extended range.

“FN America is extremely excited to partner with True Velocity on this effort to deliver the next medium machine gun to the U.S. military,” said Mark Cherpes, President and CEO for FN America, LLC. “Both companies share that drive and desire to innovate and deliver game-changing technology to the warfighter. This has produced a really great team environment on this effort.”

Incorporating proprietary “impulse-averaging recoil mitigation” technology, True Velocity’s .338 Norma machine gun delivers a 300-grain projectile with enhanced range and precision, while optimizing controllability and maintaining a profile similar to that of the M240 belt-fed machine gun, which is chambered for the smaller, less energetic 7.62x51mm cartridge.

“True Velocity’s lightweight medium machine gun submission is the product of more than a decade of continued innovation and rigorous evaluation,” said True Velocity Senior Executive Vice President of Sales Kevin Sims. “This weapon system delivers unprecedented tactical and operational capabilities to our American warfighters. The sooner we bring it to the battlefield, the better.”

The innovative, modular multi-caliber CZ BREN 3 model stands out for its high accuracy, extreme durability, impressive shooting comfort and absolute reliability. All versions of the third generation CZ BREN meet the demanding requirements of NATO AC/225 D/14 tests and users can fully rely on them for reliable operation in the most demanding conditions, such as high or low temperatures, salt water, sand, mud or dust.

“The CZ BREN 3 is the result of feedback we received from soldiers, police officers and special forces personnel from around the world, who are equipped with the previous CZ BREN series. Our top experts have innovatively transferred this wealth of experience into the new CZ BREN 3 generation, with an emphasis on improving key features that include sophisticated ergonomics and the resulting shooting comfort. All of this leads us to believe that our new flagship product in the select-fire rifle segment will be a great success with the military and security forces,” said Jan Zajic, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors at CZ.

The CZ BREN 3 comes in two standard calibers and several barrel lengths. The 5.56 × 45 NATO caliber version is available with a 7″, 11″, 14.5″ or 16.5″ barrel. The 300 AAC Blackout caliber version is available with a 7″ or 9″ barrel. All barrels are cold hammer forged, which ensures high accuracy, and their already impressive durability is radically increased even more by a chrome-lined bore. Extraction of combustion gas can be adjusted with a three-position gas port regulator, which optimizes operation when using a suppressor or when faced with adverse conditions or gun fouling.

Fully ambidextrous, AR-style controls include a 45° firing mode selector (safe/single shot/full-auto), magazine release and bolt catch/release (on the left side of the receiver and inside the trigger guard). The non-reciprocal charging handle is on both sides of the firearm. One side has a fixed handle and the other side has a folding handle, with both handles being swappable.

The CZ BREN 3 series is equipped with a folding, four-position telescopic stock made of a highly durable polymer. However, a PDW-style four-position telescopic stock is also available. One of the key features of the CZ BREN 3’s high modularity is the easily replaceable extended forend, which is made of highly durable aluminum alloy. The standard extended forend is equipped with an M-LOK interface for mounting a wide range of accessories, such as sights, flashlights, laser markers, and more. The user can also choose from a STANAG 4694 or Suppressor-Ready forend – the latter is sized for mounting a suppressor. A total of seven QD attachment points on all versions allows for increased options on how to attach rifle slings.

In short, the CZ BREN 3 is an advanced service rifle for the 21st century. No matter where you are or what situations you face, you can count on the accuracy, reliability, and advanced performance you need to successfully complete your mission.

The fully automatic CZ BREN 3 series is only available for use by official armed forces.

FN Herstal recently unveiled this new member of its illustrious family of machine guns. It joins the FN M2HB-QCB .50 (12.7x99mm NATO) calibre heavy machine gun, the FN MAG 7.62 NATO calibre medium/general purpose machine gun, and the FN MINIMI 5.56 and 7.62mm NATO calibre light machine guns. Standardized by dozens of armed forces including many NATO members and allies, they have totally dominated the NATO calibre machine gun market for decades.

The FN EVOLYS, chambered in 5.56x45mm or 7.62x51mm calibre, is for mobile infantry or SF units, designed to bridge the gap between the rifle and the light machine gun. It has been undergoing trials with several armed forces, who appreciated its greatly reduced weight, ease of handling, long one-piece top rail allowing in-line mounting of optics, its reliability, and above all the intensive firepower of a belt-fed weapon. Feedback identified two features that users suggested should be modified – and FN Herstal has incorporated them:

• Buttstock: A M4 type buttstock with ergonomics familiar to many users, with adjustable length of pull (6 positions) and interchangeable cheek rest (2 heights).
• Bipod: The optional bipod has been given stronger aluminium legs and a reinforced attachment interface providing a more stable and robust support.

The FN EVOLYS with these new features will be displayed on the FN Herstal’s booth at Eurosatory 2024 to be held in Paris from 17 to 21 June. Come and see it, booth F95, hall 6, on the Belgian pavilion.

The FN MINIMI is often fitted with an optical sight mounted on a rail that is integral with the feed cover. However, it is difficult to mount two optics in-line on the current rail. Configurations of both the FN MINIMI 5.56 Mk3 and FN MINIMI 7.62 Mk3 have been introduced with a longer rail feed cover that includes 23 slots. 

The one-piece rigid top rail gives sufficient rail length to mount two optics in-line. For example, a non-magnifying day optic with a magnifier, or a day optic with a night vision optic. Mounting both optics on a single rail provides reliable assembly and ensures greater accuracy. The standard adjustable rear iron sight has been replaced by a flip-up non-adjustable rear sight for back-up use. 

A cover retaining latch holds the feed cover open during loading, unloading and clearing actions to counter the weight of the optics. This ensures that handling is equally safe and easy with or without optics fitted. 

These modifications give the user a valuable added capability that can make a real difference in current operational conditions. 

This variant of the FN MINIMI Mk3, available in 5.56x45mm NATO or 7.62x51mm NATO calibre, will be on display at the FN Herstal stand at the major EUROSATORY trade show, to be held in Paris-Villepinte, from 17 to 21 June 20.

Based on a revolutionary new digital Vertical-Cavity, Surface Emitting Laser (VCSEL) diode core, the MILR supports the widest range of platforms and applications that allows for a singular, lightweight, and comprehensive solution for advanced ranging, aiming, illuminating, and ballistic solutions. Optimized for machinegun use and fully feature capable for precision rifles as well as remote weapon stations, the MILR is the only device that enables full day and night ballistic capability from a weapons platform without the use of a clip-on night vision device.

Capability Development

To ensure a decisive advantage during night operations and increase survivability and lethality of the operator, a novel approach to range finding, infrared illumination, and targeting via a new fire control system was proposed by B.E. Meyers & Co.  The MILR Miniature Intelligent Laser Rangefinder is a Class 3B/3R combination high-power infrared aiming and illumination device with visible pointer, as well as range-finding ballistic computer (via the Applied Ballistics integrated software) that can both provide holds on-screen for use with a day-optic or actively declinate the disturbed infrared aiming laser for ballistic compensation when using head-borne night vision devices.

A new laser-based variable divergence illuminator provides ideal beam clarity over an extended application range while also decreasing response times in near and mid-range engagements. The system is designed for combat environmental criteria to include immersion, recoil, and thermal shock, while maintaining position stability and system functionality.

Technology and Design

The technology and functionality behind the MILR have been in development for the last several years and support a design concept which allows for complete digital manipulation of all key system controls, to include power, divergence, VIS/IR, ranging, mode/function, and more.  As the power and divergence controls on the MILR are completely digital there is no optical or mechanical movement within the system apart from azimuth and elevation boresight controls. Divergence and power are synchronized for best pointing and illumination effect and are continually and instantly at the operator’s discretion through the onboard control configurations.

The design and functionality of MILR is based on its ability to achieve digital laser movement within the system, specifically the infrared pointer, which internally declinates to create a ballistic solution for the shooter while under NVGs. The introduction of this first Disturbed Infrared Aiming Laser (DIAL) capability allows for true day-to-night extended-range overmatch for weapons platforms traditionally limited in effectiveness during night engagements. Additionally, the MILR uses a step-through ballistic setup interface that provides ballistic computer capability to user groups not previously trained to use a ballistic solver data, while retaining compatibility for traditional long-form profile setups.

Platforms and Applications

The versatility and ruggedness of the MILR design lends itself for use on most individual weapon systems, precision rifle platforms, crew-served weapon systems, and remote weapon stations as well as other integrated solutions. Additionally, MILR seamlessly communicates with Kestrel Instruments wind and weather meters for expeditious host-weapon data download. Our Disturbed Infrared Aiming Laser (DIAL) technology is collaboratively partnered with Applied Ballistics, Bluetooth, and Unity Tactical, providing a revolutionary technical concept in a rugged, ergonomic, lightweight, and combat-capable device.

Features and Specifications

By orchestrating these best-in-class features and combining them with our next generation VCSEL core, the technological versatility inherent in MILR allows for an exceptionally enhanced multi-platform visible/infrared aiming and illumination laser solution.  The MILR series of laser rangefinders truly create a new category of fire control systems, and like all B.E. Meyers & Co. products, are proudly Made in the USA. 
Interim specifications can be found here: https://bemeyers.com/milr

Options and Availability

The MILR series of laser systems will be available in either green or red visible wavelengths, and color options of black and flat dark earth, as well as custom configurations for certain orders. MILR is scheduled for multi-market production release in 2025 via select B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc. registered resellers in the US and internationally. Market competitive pricing and additional details will be announced in advance of release. For more information on MILR and other innovative laser solutions from B.E. Meyers & Co., please visit bemeyers.com/MILR or connect with us at info@bemeyers.com.

Capability Development

To ensure a decisive advantage during night operations and increase survivability and lethality of the operator, a new weapon mounted laser pointer and illuminator system was proposed by B.E. Meyers & Co. The DAGIR series combines the advantages of minimal size and weight while improving performance, reliability, and operability. A new laser-based variable divergence illuminator provides ideal beam clarity over an extended application range while also decreasing response times in near and mid-range engagements. The system is designed for combat environmental criteria to include immersion, recoil, and thermal shock, while maintaining position stability and system functionality.

The DAGIR is intended for everything from close-range carbine use to high-power extended-range machine gun applications, as well as integration with remote weapon stations and other platforms.

Technology and Design

The technology and functionality behind the DAGIR have been in development for the last several years and support a design concept which allows for complete digital manipulation of all key system controls, to include power, divergence, VIS/IR, mode/function, and more. As the power and divergence controls on the DAGIR are completely digital, there is no optical or mechanical movement within the system apart from azimuth and elevation boresight controls. Divergence and power are synchronized for best pointing and illumination effect and are continually and instantly at the operator’s discretion through the onboard control configurations.

The design of the DAGIR, specifically form factor, ergonomics, and functionality, is based on end-user feedback from across the spectrum of military, law enforcement, and recreational shooters which started with our introduction of MAWL®, currently with over 25,000 systems in use worldwide. DAGIR seeks to incorporate the most sought-after design aspects of all modern laser systems on the market and advances them.

Platforms and Applications

The versatility and ruggedness of the DAGIR design lends itself for use on individual weapon systems, precision rifles, crew-served weapon systems, and remote weapon stations as well as other platforms. DAGIR is capable of operating in training mode, or selectable power levels. Through our collaborative partnership with Unity Tactical that allows for the incorporation of their various remote activation cables by way of our patented Wakizashi communications port, we ensure a myriad of control configurations and placement options.

Features and Specifications

By orchestrating these best-in-class features and combining them with our next generation VCSEL core, the technological versatility inherent in DAGIR allows for an exceptionally enhanced multi-platform visible and infrared aiming and illumination laser solution. This is not just a broadening of specifications, but by questioning the status quo, the DAGIR exhibits a truly extraordinary pivot in combat laser system design. The DAGIR series of lasers, like all B.E. Meyers & Co. products, are proudly Made in the USA. Interim specifications can be found here: bemeyers.com/DAGIR

Options and Availability

The DAGIR series of laser systems will be available in either green or red visible wavelength options, and color options of black and flat dark earth, as well as custom configurations for certain orders. DAGIR is scheduled for multi-market production release in 2025 via select B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc. registered resellers in the US and internationally. Market competitive pricing and additional details will be announced in advance of release. For more information on DAGIR and other innovative laser solutions from B.E. Meyers & Co., please visit bemeyers.com/DAGIR or connect with us at info@bemeyers.com.

The announcement states, “Bids were solicited via the internet with one received. Work will be performed in West Hartford, Connecticut, with an estimated completion date of Aug. 31, 2024. Fiscal 2024 Foreign Military Sales (Israel) funds in the amount of $26,675,000 were obligated at the time of the award. Army Contracting Command, Newark, New Jersey, is the contracting activity.

The contract award number is W15QKN-24-C-0037.

Soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division are the latest to work with the newly fielded XM7 rifle and XM250 automatic rifle as shown in this video recorded during a Next Generation Squad Weapons (NGSW) New Equipment Training (NET) event at Fort Campbell, April 15, 2024.

The video is brought to you by Jason Amadi/U.S. Army, PEO Soldier, U.S. Department of Defense.
(The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.)

Built to exceed the demands of professional use, the Acro P-2 sight has been proven to withstand the extreme abuse of a semi-automatic pistol slide and demands facing law enforcement officers. The Acro Series of optics introduced the enclosed emitter design and the fully protected optical channel for pistol optics. It has become the standard for those who require the highest standards for gear used in the line of duty.

The Walther PDP Compact and Walther PDP F-Series handguns are direct milled to accept Aimpoint Acro P-2 optics. Selected on performance, innovation, and durability features, the Acro P-2 provides up to five years of constant-on use from a single CR-2032 battery, providing law enforcement officers the confidence required while focusing on any imminent danger.

As the originator of red dot sighting technology, Aimpoint is trusted as the worldwide leader of reflex sights in both quality and technical support. For more information on the Acro P-2 optic or any other Aimpoint products, visit the company’s webpage: www.aimpoint.us

For inclusion on the MHS Additional Authorized List (AAL), the U.S. Army evaluated numerous pistol red dot sights, from multiple manufacturers, through vigorous environmental and performance evaluations and the ROMEO2 and the previously awarded ROMEO-M17 (NSN: 1240-01-713-9795) each achieved successful selection.  The issuance of the NSN to these products streamlines the procurement process for all NATO members and partner countries as an identified standardized material. 

The ROMEO2 is a Red Dot Reflex Sight that features a molded glass aspheric lens with high-performance coatings for superior light transmittance and zero distortion, available with a 3 MOA, 6 MOA, or Circle/Dot reticle, and offers D.A.R.C. (Dark Adaptive Reticles and Coatings) technology to provide ideal reticle brightness and target clarity during the day and while using a Gen3+ night vision device.  MOTAC (motion-activated illumination system) automatically turns the optic off when not in use, and automatically turns it back on when it detects motion, and MAGNETAC (Magnetic Activation) automatically turns the optic off when holstered in a compatible holster, and on when drawn.   The sight has a 7075-aluminum housing and comes with two (2) steel shrouds for three (3) different optic configurations, to include fully enclosed and sealed.  A spring-loaded side battery tray with push-button release allows a battery change without the need to remove the optic from the firearm. 

Additionally, the approved MHS AAL ROMEO2 kit includes Berry-compliant wrenches, an X-RAY3 green suppressor-height front night sight to co-witness with the integrated rear sight on the ROMEO2 housing, and a plug to fill the hole in the rear of the MHS slide when the sight plate is removed.

ROMEO2 Red Dot Sight Specs:

• Magnification: 1x
• Reticle: Circle Dot / 3MOA / 6MOA / 10 MOA Red Dot
• Adjustment: 1 MOA (per click)
• Clear Aperture: 30mm
• Illumination Settings: 12 Daylight, 3 NV
• Waterproof: IPX7
• Battery: CR2032
• Overall Length: 1.84 inches
• Overall Width: 1.32 inches
• Overall Height w/o shrouds: 1.12 inch
• NSN Number: 1240-01-717-4679

The ROMOE2 is designed, developed, tested, and assembled in the U.S.A.

For more information about the ROMEO2 visit sigsauer.com.