U.S. Army Strengthens Infantry Capabilities Through FN America’s M240L Machine Gun Contract

In early July 2025, FN America secured a $4.9 million contract to supply additional M240L lightweight medium machine guns to the United States Army. This procurement reflects the Army’s continued reliance on FN America for small arms systems and highlights the enduring role of the M240L within the Army’s infantry arsenal.

M240L. army.mil

The M240L is a variant of the M240 series, which itself is derived from the FN MAG 58 general-purpose machine gun introduced in the 1970s. The M240L was adopted by the U.S. Army in 2010 following a joint development initiative aimed at reducing the weight of medium machine guns without compromising performance. The weapon achieves an 18 percent reduction in weight compared to the M240B, primarily through the use of titanium in key components such as the receiver. This results in a weight of approximately 22.3 pounds, trimming about five pounds from its predecessor.

Technically, the M240L retains a barrel length of 21.7 inches and an effective range exceeding 1,800 meters. It operates with an open bolt mechanism, which helps mitigate overheating during sustained fire. The quick-change barrel configuration enhances adaptability in high-intensity operations. The weapon maintains a cyclic rate of up to 650 rounds per minute and a muzzle velocity near 2,800 feet per second.

The M240L’s design reflects broader trends in NATO machine gun development, particularly the emphasis on reducing soldier burden while maintaining firepower. Similar efforts can be observed in other NATO-standard systems, such as the UK’s L7 GPMG lineage. The M240L’s integration of modern materials and manufacturing techniques positions it as a practical solution to the challenge of balancing lethality with mobility.

Over time, the M240 series has evolved into multiple configurations, including the M240B, M240D, M240H, and coaxial variants. This adaptability has enabled its deployment across various platforms, including dismounted infantry units and vehicle crews. The M240L’s modularity and operational pedigree contribute to its continued relevance in contemporary military operations.

Strategically, the M240L supports the U.S. Army’s modernization goals by enhancing infantry mobility and sustainment. These factors are increasingly significant in scenarios involving distributed operations and high-intensity conflict. The weapon’s reduced weight and consistent performance align with the Army’s objective of equipping soldiers with systems that improve operational efficiency without introducing complexity.

FN America’s role in supplying the M240L underscores its longstanding relationship with the U.S. military. In addition to the M240 series, FN America holds contracts for other small arms systems, including the M249 SAW and the MK 17 and MK 20 rifles used by special operations forces. The company’s continued involvement in these programs reflects its position as a key provider of small arms to the U.S. defense sector.

While the $4.9 million contract may be modest in scale compared to larger procurement initiatives, it indicates a sustained demand for incremental upgrades that directly benefit frontline units. The M240L’s combination of durability, range, and reduced weight ensures its continued utility in future operations. Its design and performance characteristics suggest that it will remain a component of the Army’s small arms portfolio for the foreseeable future.