The US Army has chosen a new caliber

(To Tiziano Ciocchetti)
25/04/19

Initially launched by the Pentagon as NGSAR (Next Generation Squad Automatic), later modified to NGSW-R (Next Generation Squad Weapons-Rifle) and NGSW-AR (Next Generation Squad Weapons-Automatic Rifle), the program is aimed at replacing M carbines -4 and the LMG M-249, both weapons in caliber 5,56x45.

Even the new weapons will have the same caliber, in fact to replace the blow in the 5,56x45 caliber (77 grains) the new XM1186 ammunition was chosen, an advanced and lightweight cartridge in 6,8x43 caliber (General Purpose). According to the tests carried out, this new shot has a better range, greater accuracy over medium distances (500 / 600 meters), as well as greater ability to penetrate the ballistic protections compared to the current ammunition in 5,56x45 caliber.

Obviously the new weapons will have a sophisticated aiming system that will be integrated into the latest generation equipment available to American soldiers.

The objective of the NGSW program is to improve lethality, mobility and situational awareness, to allow the infantry to face future operational scenarios.

Last April 19, Army Contracting Command published an explanation on the US Government website, announcing that initial orders for NGSW weapon systems could include 250.000 total specimens (NGSW-R and NGSW-AR) and 150.000.000 of ammunition.

Photo: US Army