FN America has been awarded a $9.9 million contract to supply the U.S. Army and U.S. Navy with FN M240B machine guns, continuing the supply of FN America’s longest-standing military weapons platform. The gun—built on the M240 platform that was adopted and has been in use by the U.S. military since the late 1970s—is the “go-to/can-do” medium machine gun for all branches of the U.S. military. Its reliability, extended range, exceptional service life and high volume of fire make it the principal suppressive firearm for the infantry platoon and company.
“This contract continues FN’s legacy of providing the most effective and advanced weapon systems for the warfighter,” said Jim Williams, vice president of Military Programs for FN America. “The U.S. Army contract for the M240 machine gun was the first military contract FN was awarded and the first to be produced from our production facility in South Carolina. We’re incredibly honored to continue supporting the U.S. military with high-quality and reliable weapon systems for our servicemen and women.”
Chambered in 7.62 NATO, the M240B’s cold hammer-forged, mil-spec barrel has a hard-chromed bore for longer life, improved accuracy and maximum range of 3,725 meters. The receiver is machined steel and equipped with a top-mounted M1913 Picatinny optics rail. The crossbolt safety and curved trigger enhance operator control.
“Since beginning our first production in 1981, FN has produced millions of firearms for the U.S. military at our Columbia, S.C., manufacturing facility,” said Daryl Atkins, director of Industrialized Weapons for FN America. “FN is extremely proud of the high-quality, reliable firearms we build for our military servicemen and women, and we look forward to continuing the tradition with this contract.”
Throughout its history, FN has been one of the largest suppliers of small arms to the U.S. military and continues to develop innovative, future technology. In addition to the M240 platform, the company currently holds contracts for the FN M249, MK 46, MK 48, MK 17 and MK 20 SSR for USSOCOM and various other contracts.
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