SOFINS 2021: New FN Evolys lightweight machine gun unveiled for the first time to the public.

The Belgian company FN Herstal unveils for the first time to the public its new FN Evolys Ultralight machine gun available in 5.56 and 7.62mm calibers during the SOFINS 2021, the Special Operations Forces Innovation Network Seminar and exhibition.

The new ultralight machine gun FN Evolys fully developed and designed by the Belgian firearms company FN Herstal. (Picture source Army Recognition)

The FN Evolys is designed to respond to the new needs of armed forces and Special Forces thanks to its unique design offering one of the most lightweight machine guns in the world combining the firing capabilities of a belt-fed machine gun with ergonomics and balance similar to an assault rifle.

The FN EVOLYS is not a converted FN SCAR assault rifle but uses the proven technology of a gas-operated, open-bolt, short-stroke piston weapon. The new machine gun can be manipulated like an assault rifle, thanks to its compact design.

Another important feature is the weight. The FN Evolys weighs 5.5 kg in 556 mm caliber and 6.2 kg in 762mm caliber. FN Herstal has designed one of the lightest machine guns on the current military market.

In terms of design, the FN EVOLYS originally integrates a long one-piece Picatinny top rail, allowing the use of different types of optical sight combining day and night capabilities or magnifiers, without removing the basic iron sight.

The FN EVOLYS also features an M-LOCK receiver and a lower Picatinny rail. The weapon can be fitted with a bipod to increase comfort and stability when firing. The M Lock is a new standard of firearms rail interface used to attach accessories like a Picatinny rail using composite materials, not aluminum.

The FN EVOLYS is fitted with an ambidextrous fire selector that has a semi-automatic position to engage point targets like with a rifle, while the full-auto position allows suppressive fire like with a machine gun.