U.S. Army’s new squad weapon

For the first time in six decades, the U.S. Army is introducing a new squad weapon – a SIG Sauer rifle in a larger calibre, with a fire control system and suppressor


SIG Sauer XM5 / MCX Spear rifle
Next Generation Squad Weapon designed to fire SIG Fury 6.8x51mm cartridge. Effective range: Lethal at 500 metres – significantly more than 5.56x45 NATO calibre

51.18mm 

Rate of fire: 800 rounds/min 

Stainless steel base: To handle chamber pressure of 80,000 psi* (551.6 MPa)

Brass case


Vortex XM157 Fire Control System: Integrates ballistics of rifle and Fury round with variable magnification scope, laser rangefinder, atmospheric sensors and compass.

Automatically moves reticle onto target

Overall length: 866mm

Six-position folding stock, reduces length to 609mm

Fire mode: Semi, full auto

Translucent polymer magazine: 20 rounds

Picatinny rail: To attach accessories

Barrel length: 330mm 
Muzzle velocity: 910m/s

Suppressor: First U.S. service rifle to be silenced as standard


Level IV body armour: 6.8mm round capable of penetrating highest level of protection at effective range


*pounds per sq inch, megapascals in SI units


Sources: Department of Defence, Military Review, Sig Sauer, Vortex 
Picture: New Zealand Defence Force
© GRAPHIC NEWS