DSEI 2025: FN Herstal develops new Multi Weapon Mount system for land and naval combat platforms.

During DSEI 2025, a defense exhibition held in London, UK, Belgian company FN Herstal displayed its latest innovation, the FN Multi Weapon Mount (MWM). Announced on September 11, 2025, the new system showcased FN’s ambition to redefine modular firepower through a pintle-mounted platform that is compatible with multiple calibers and mission profiles. Designed for integration across both land and naval combat platforms, the FN MWM reflects a forward-leaning approach to battlefield versatility by combining digital lifecycle tools with advanced targeting capabilities for support and self-protection missions in multi-domain operations.
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Belgian company FN Herstal displays its new FN Multi Weapon Mount system during DSEI 2025 in London, showcasing modular firepower for land and naval platforms. (Picture source: Army Recognition Group)

Drawing on decades of combat-proven engineering in pintle systems, Belgian Company FN Herstal has taken a major step forward with a system that blends universal weapon compatibility, digital tracking, and fire control integration. The FN MWM is designed to support a broad range of FN machine guns, including the FN MAG, FN MINIMI, and the newest generation FN EVOLYS. It allows operators to switch between 5.56mm, 7.62mm, and 12.7mm calibers with minimal mechanical adjustments, significantly enhancing mission adaptability without requiring separate mounts or vehicle modifications.

What makes the FN MWM stand out is not just its modularity but its smart integration features. Every system comes equipped with the FN SMARTCORE shot counter, a sensor embedded inside the weapon that continuously monitors round count, wear levels, and maintenance cycles. This data can be accessed using FN's proprietary software, providing commanders and armorers with a digital logbook that simplifies sustainment, reduces downtime, and increases overall weapon readiness.

In terms of targeting and engagement, FN adds another layer of sophistication through the FN ELITY LITE, a lightweight and rugged fire control module that includes a laser rangefinder, infrared illuminator, and laser pointer. These components work together to deliver improved accuracy in both day and night operations. By integrating this suite directly into the mount, FN ensures that firepower is not only mobile and adaptable but also digitally enhanced for precision combat scenarios.

For maritime applications, FN Herstal has developed a dedicated version known as the FN SEA MWM. This naval configuration has been tested and certified for high-stress environments, including prolonged exposure to salt spray, humidity, and extreme temperatures. The SEA MWM is optimized for deployment on coastal patrol vessels, rigid-hull inflatable boats (RHIBs), and amphibious vehicles, offering navies a robust solution for anti-piracy, littoral defense, and escort operations. The system’s ruggedized design ensures full mission capability even under adverse maritime conditions.

In an exclusive statement to Army Recognition, a senior FN Herstal engineer highlighted the system’s role in future-proofing force structures. “The FN MWM was engineered to give armed forces a flexible, connected, and durable solution across domains. Whether mounted on a land vehicle or a naval platform, it reduces logistical strain while increasing combat effectiveness. This is what modern operations demand.”

The appearance of the FN MWM at DSEI 2025 signals FN Herstal’s strategic focus on aligning with NATO standards for modularity and network-enabled capability. Its open architecture makes it suitable for integration on various tactical platforms, including the JLTV, MRAP, and MRZR, as well as a wide array of naval craft. In an era where armed forces seek systems that can scale from conventional warfare to hybrid threats, the FN MWM is positioned as a high-impact, low-footprint solution.

As Western and allied forces increase emphasis on multi-role platforms and data-driven maintenance, FN Herstal’s latest offering bridges the gap between traditional firepower and digital battlefield integration. With the Multi Weapon Mount, the company continues to solidify its reputation as a leading innovator in crew-served weapon systems for the next generation of armed conflict.

Written by Alain Servaes – Chief Editor, Army Recognition Group
Alain Servaes is a former infantry non-commissioned officer and the founder of Army Recognition. With over 20 years in defense journalism, he provides expert analysis on military equipment, NATO operations, and the global defense industry.