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Spain to Receive New Batch of Belgian FN Minimi MK3 Machine Guns.
In an ongoing modernization effort, the Spanish Navy signed a new contract in early October 2024 for an additional batch of Minimi MK3 machine guns from Belgian manufacturer FN Herstal, aimed at equipping the Marine Corps. This contract, valued at over two million euros, marks the second acquisition of this type of weaponry within a year. Although the exact number of units ordered has not been disclosed, an analysis of previous contracts suggests an approximate quantity of around one hundred machine guns.
FN Herstal Minimi MK3 Machine Gun (Picture source: FN Herstal)
This new acquisition includes two models of the Minimi MK3: light versions in 5.56 mm caliber and medium versions in 7.62 mm caliber, each provided with specific accessories. The contract stipulates a maximum delivery time of two years for these arms, indicating the Navy's intention to accelerate the modernization process for its infantry equipment.
The contract has been awarded to Equipamientos SDAL, a long-standing partner of the Spanish Navy and the exclusive supplier of FN Herstal equipment in Spain. Notably, this company was the only bidder during the procurement process managed by the Navy’s Logistics Support Command. Although the award announcement does not detail the distribution of calibers or included accessories, it is possible to make an estimate based on previous purchases. In November 2023, a similar contract enabled the purchase of 46 Minimi MK3 in 7.62 mm caliber, with a budget close to one million euros, suggesting that this current contract could encompass around 100 machine guns.
This new acquisition is part of a comprehensive military equipment renewal plan aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of the Spanish Marine Corps. Since late 2021, the Navy has gradually introduced Minimi and Minimi MK3 machine guns into its arsenal, with nearly one hundred light and medium units acquired between 2021 and 2022, followed by a batch of around fifty in 2023. This new order underscores the military's commitment to equipping its forces with state-of-the-art weaponry to meet the demands of current missions.
Minimi MK3 machine guns, designed for increased efficiency and durability, are primarily integrated into the weapons sections of the rifle companies of the Marine Infantry Brigade (Brimar). The 7.62 mm model, in particular, is used by Operational Security Teams (EOS) to protect Navy ships during international missions. This type of equipment provides sustained firepower while being flexible enough to adapt to various operational environments, whether in open terrain or urban settings.
The Minimi MK3 is an advanced version of the renowned machine gun first introduced in the 1970s. It features multiple ergonomic and functional improvements designed to optimize its use in the field. Among these innovations is an adjustable stock with five positions, equipped with a folding armrest and hydraulic shock absorber. This system effectively reduces recoil and allows for a steady firing rate, significantly enhancing operator comfort and shooting accuracy.
The weapon also comes with an adjustable three-position bipod handguard, providing increased stability in prone or supported firing positions. Additionally, three MIL-STD 1913 Picatinny rails enable the attachment of various accessories, such as optical sights or laser targeting systems, further enhancing the MK3’s versatility in different tactical contexts. A redesigned feed tray and thermal guard add extra safety for operators, particularly during extended use under intense firing conditions.
This new contract underscores the importance the Spanish Navy places on modernizing its arsenal in response to contemporary security challenges. The Minimi MK3 machine guns, renowned for their reliability and effectiveness, represent a valuable asset for Spanish forces, capable of addressing complex situations, whether in peacekeeping operations, protecting naval infrastructure, or rapid intervention missions.
The relationship between FN Herstal and the Spanish military is founded on a series of successive contracts, reflecting the Spanish armed forces' confidence in the Belgian manufacturer’s ability to meet their weaponry needs. For several years, FN Herstal has regularly supplied cutting-edge equipment to Spain, particularly the Minimi machine guns, which have become essential in the Marine Corps’ arsenal. The first of these contracts dates back to late 2021, with an initial order of approximately one hundred machine guns aimed at strengthening the Marine Corps’ weapons sections and the Operational Security Teams. In November 2023, a new contract was signed for the supply of 46 Minimi MK3 units in 7.62 mm caliber, marking continued progress in Spain’s armament modernization. This third contract, signed in October 2024, further expands this arsenal with the addition of 5.56 mm models, highlighting the Spanish Navy’s intent to standardize its equipment with the latest versions of the Minimi machine gun. These successive acquisitions reflect the Spanish military’s satisfaction with FN Herstal’s performance and reliability, establishing the company as a strategic player in Spanish defense for machine gun systems.
By acquiring these modern machine guns, the Spanish Navy ensures that its front-line units, including the Marine Corps and Operational Security Teams, are equipped with high-performance material adapted to emerging threats. This series of successive purchases also reflects a sustainable investment policy in equipping the Spanish armed forces, maintaining an optimal level of operational readiness for years to come.