In 2024 US Army plans to equip soldiers with 6.8mm XM7 assault rifles & XM250 machine guns.

The US Army's Next Generation Squad Weapon (NGSW) program is set for deployment in 2024, which includes the introduction of the XM7 assault rifle and XM250 light machine gun. These weapons are poised to be a replacement for the M4/M4A1 and the M249. Both of them are produced by SIG Sauer USA.
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The new XM250 light machine gun is to be used by the US Army in 2024. (Picture source: Sig Sauer)

The US Army plans to deploy its NGSW program in 2024, incorporating the XM7 assault rifle and XM250 light machine gun developed by SIG Sauer USA.

The XM7 assault rifle is poised to be a powerful replacement for the M4/M4A1. Weighing 8.38 pounds (3.8 kg) without a suppressor and 9.84 pounds (4.46 kg), it offers a balance between maneuverability and firepower. The XM7's SR-25 magazines have a capacity of 20 to 25 rounds, which some soldiers, particularly Ukrainian soldiers, find a bit insufficient compared to higher-capacity magazines. The 6.8mm ammunition chosen for the XM7 provides improved penetration and effectiveness against modern ballistic protections, catering to the needs of longer-range combat and better-equipped adversaries.

The XM250 is designed to replace the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon, bringing significant improvements in terms of weight and performance. It is about 5 pounds (2.27 kg) lighter than the M249, thereby lightening soldiers' load while enhancing their firepower. Using the same 6.8mm ammunition as the XM7, the XM250 ensures consistency in caliber and increases the lethality of close combat units.

The 6.8mm ammunition, specifically developed for these weapons, plays a crucial role in enhancing combat capabilities. It is said to offer better penetration than 5.56mm and 7.62mm ammunition, effectively countering modern enemy armor. However, this increase in power is accompanied by an increase in the weight of the ammunition, posing a logistical challenge for the transport and mobility of soldiers on the field.

The adoption of the XM157 intelligent sighting system, designed by Vortex Optics/Sheltered Wings, represents another advancement. This system facilitates computer-assisted aiming and automatically adjusts for range and bullet drop, thereby increasing shooting accuracy. This ability to rapidly adapt to varying shooting conditions is essential for combat effectiveness.

It should be noted that the United States is no longer alone in rethinking its ammunition strategy. Russia has also announced work on an intermediate caliber for its assault rifles, as we discussed on Army Recognition on December 15, 2023. Other nations will follow the movement initiated by the United States and adapt to this new standard, with NATO member countries particularly in mind.

The deployment of the XM7 and XM250 in the US Army signifies a transformation in the combat doctrine of the infantry. These weapons respond to rapidly evolving threats on the modern battlefield, especially in terms of range and penetration. They represent a strategic shift, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and technological superiority in future conflicts.

The new XM7 assault riffle is to be used by the US Army in 2024. (Picture source: US DoD)