Army explores SAW replacement with NGSAR awards
The US Army has awarded six Other Transaction Agreements (OTA) for prototypes of a Next Generation Squad Automatic Rifle (NGSAR).
The NGSAR, which will address operational needs identified in various capability based assessments and numerous after-action reports, is the planned replacement for the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW) in brigade combat teams.
A programme description notes that the new weapon will combine the firepower and range of a machine gun with the precision and ergonomics of a rifle, yielding capability improvements in accuracy, range, and lethality.
‘The weapon will be lightweight and fire lightweight ammunition, improving soldier mobility,
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
Northrop Grumman pushing ahead with smaller Integrated Battle Command System
Northrop Grumman’s Integrated Battle Command System is in service with Polish forces and is being introduced to US forces, with further development underway on the original platform as well as a smaller, more mobile system.
-
UK’s ground-based air defence effort remains in assessment phase after third industry day
The UK’s plan to introduce a new air defence capability into the British Army will cover short and medium-range defence as well as counter-uncrewed aerial system systems. Timelines are not yet laid out but industry is making plans.
-
K9 Thunder gains momentum across three key international markets
Recent activity across Australia, Norway and the US highlights Hanwha Defense’s expanding presence in a self-propelled artillery market reshaped by the demands of modern warfare.
-
Team Grenadier aims for success with the British Army’s LMV programme
Team Grenadier has unveiled the latest variant of its Grenadier 4x4, which it hopes will win the Light Mobility Vehicle segment of the army’s Land Mobility Programme.
-
Dominating the spectrum: ASELSAN’s EW capabilities take center stage at MSPO 2026
ASELSAN is showcasing its advanced electronic warfare (EW) capabilities at MSPO 2026, highlighting technologies designed to detect, analyse, disrupt and deceive threats across increasingly contested electromagnetic environments.