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Israel Acquires US XM250 Light Machine Gun Chambered in 7.62x51mm.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have reportedly acquired a 7.62x51mm version of the XM250 light machine gun (LMG) developed by Sig Sauer for the U.S. Army. This acquisition marks a potential shift in the IDF's light machine gun procurement strategy, with the new light Machine Gun offering a lighter and more versatile alternative to the existing Negev series, which could be replaced in some cases. According to a report by the Israeli newspaper Haaretz, the IDF’s acquisition involves Sig Sauer’s XM250 in 7.62x51mm, a variant of the one used by the U.S. Army, initially chambered for the 6.8x51mm cartridge. This light machine gun could replace certain models of the Negev series, which are available in both 5.56x45mm and 7.62x51mm, and are currently in service with the Israeli military.
The XM250 is part of the U.S. Army’s Next Generation Squad Weapons (NGSW) program, including the XM7 rifle, chambered in 6.8x51mm. (Picture source: US DoD)
This information was potentially confirmed by a recently surfaced video showing several XM250s equipped with various optics, including the ROMEO8T non-magnifying "red-dot" sight paired with a Juliet-series magnifier, both Sig Sauer products. The video also shows aiming lasers, suppressors, and other advanced accessories, all becoming common features on modern light machine guns used by militaries. The use of these optics indicates the IDF’s intention to deploy the LMG in various combat missions.
The XM250 is part of the U.S. Army’s Next Generation Squad Weapons (NGSW) program, including the XM7 rifle, chambered in 6.8x51mm. Sig Sauer's design is intended to offer high modularity, with ergonomic features similar to the AR-15/M16-style rifles that Israeli soldiers are already familiar with. The 7.62x51mm version, now in the hands of the IDF, shares the same dimensions as the 6.8x51mm version, with a 16-inch barrel and a total length of 37 inches when the stock is collapsed.
Although the exact number of XM250s acquired by the IDF remains unclear, the adoption of this version fits into a growing global trend of interest in lighter machine guns. A similar example would be the FN Evolys, which is clearly a lighter and more compact light machine gun intended for special forces.
The Negev NG7, the weapon expected to be replaced, weighs about 17.5 pounds in its standard configuration with a 20-inch barrel. While the XM250 is likely slightly heavier than its 5.56mm variants, it should still be lighter than the NG7, enhancing IDF troops' mobility. The 7.62x51mm version would also allow the IDF to use existing ammunition stocks, aligning with Israel’s strategic goals of maintaining operational flexibility and reducing logistical challenges.
The XM250 is gaining increasing success within military forces, with the U.S. Army already planning to purchase thousands of these light machine guns. This large-scale adoption will ensure a robust supply chain for this family of light machine guns, which is expected to serve in various armies for decades. Broader adoption by Israel would represent another major milestone for the company, which has been steadily expanding its influence on the global small arms market.
The acquisition of the Sig Sauer XM250 in 7.62x51mm by the IDF is a significant step in modernizing its light machine gun capabilities. Israeli military procurement decisions often have a significant impact on defense industry trends, and this development could have repercussions for future arms purchases both in Israel and internationally. The IDF’s next steps in deploying these new Sig Sauer weapons will likely provide further insights into the evolution of modern military equipment.