Sig Sauer pistols also for the USAF

(To Tiziano Ciocchetti)
23/06/20

The USAF will acquire approximately 125.000 new M-18 (P-320) pistols, produced by Sig Sauer, to arm security personnel, at a total cost of $ 22,1 million.

Acquisition more necessary than ever, as the Air Force personnel are still equipped with the Beretta M-9, introduced in service following the historic victory of 1985, in the race to replace the Colt 1911A1 in the US Armed Forces.

The order also includes ammunition to be used in training and technical support.

As the manager of the Small Arms Weapons Programs Office, Merrill Adkison, “The USAF purchased the M-9s in the 80s, and the design hasn't changed much since then. The M-9s are larger, heavier guns, all made of metal; while the M-18 are lighter polymer pistols with a smoother trigger stroke and adaptable handles for large and small hands ".

Adkison also added that providing a modern pistol to Air Force personnel was also important because of the growing difficulty in finding M-9 replacement parts.

The new M-18 pistol costs a third of what it would have cost to buy an M-9 today.

"It is important that the US Air Force proceeds with the improvement and replacement of weapon systems to keep up with potential enemies and to have the best technologies and equipment for our soldiers"Brian Lautzenheiser said. logistics manager.

Deliveries of the new guns will be completed by 2022.

Photo: US Air Force