GD OTS and Smith & Wesson team for US Army handgun system

General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems and Smith & Wesson will team to pursue the US Army’s programme to replace the M9 standard army sidearm, with an offering based on the Smith & Wesson M&P Polymer Pistol platform.

Under its draft Modular Handgun System (MHS) solicitation, the US Army is seeking a new modular handgun system that can be easily adjusted to fit all hand sizes and is optimised for improved gun, ammunition and magazine performance. The competition will commence in January 2015, with delivery of the first new handgun systems expected in 2017.

The Smith & Wesson M&P Polymer Pistol has been in production since 2005. It is designed with a reinforced polymer chassis, advanced ergonomics and safety features, and ambidextrous controls.

Tim McAuliffe, vice president and general manager of medium calibre ammunition and weapons, General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, said: ‘This partnership combines General Dynamics' proven legacy in manufacturing military armaments with Smith & Wesson's extensive experience in designing and manufacturing firearms for commercial applications. General Dynamics' extensive background in winning and managing military contracts brings proven leadership to the venture and by joining together, we will use our combined knowledge and expertise to bring this unique capability to the US military to better equip the warfighter.’

James Debney, president and CEO, Smith & Wesson, added: ‘The strategic partnership between our two companies provides us with a tremendous opportunity to support our military with a state-of-the-art sidearm, namely our M&P pistol. General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems brings us a wealth of experience and resource in federal government contracting and that capability is an ideal match with our knowledge in handgun manufacturing technology.  We look forward to working together to pursue this exciting opportunity to support our military.’

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