Norwegian Armed Forces procure 4,000 Minimi guns
FN Minimi Mk3 light machine gun. (Photo: FN Herstal)
FN Herstal announced on 3 September a multi-year contract with the Norwegian MoD to provide 4,000 FN Minimi Mk3 (3rd-generation) light machine guns in 7.62x51mm NATO calibre.
The agreement also comprises the supply of spare parts for seven years and maintenance and support equipment for more than 20 years.
This decision concludes a programme that was initiated by the Norwegian MoD more than two years ago and included a series of technical evaluations and commercial negotiations.
The Norwegian MoD also awarded FN Herstal, in 2010, a contract for the supply of first-generation FN Minimi light machine guns, at that time in 5.56x45mm NATO calibre.
According to Shephard Defence Insight, the FN Minimi 7.62 Mk 3 Tactical comes with a buttstock adjustable in length (five positions) and cheek rest height (four positions).
It has an integrated feed cover with an upper rail, lower and lateral rails, adjustable-height bipod, feed tray with belt retaining pawls, quick-change barrel and optional heatshield.
Variants of the weapon have a short or long barrel and a telescopic (Para model) or fixed buttstock (Standard model).
In service, FN Minimis can be upgraded partially or completely using conversion kits to meet the user’s preference. The FN Minimi 7.62 Mk 3 can be converted to fire 5.56x45mm ammunition.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Land Warfare
-
First locally built KF41 Lynx IFV handed over to Hungary
The KF41 procurement is part of Hungary’s Zrínyi 2026 development plan and is one of several efforts to procure modern, NATO-standard platforms that will supersede legacy equipment received from the Soviet Union by 2026.
-
Elbit Systems looks to enhance automation for Israeli artillery systems
Automation efforts on the Roem and Sigma howitzers will maintain a ‘man in a loop’ configuration as the Israeli company focuses on the export market.
-
How Spain’s acquisition of PAC-3 MSE can boost European air defence
Madrid will increase interoperability with the other seven users of next-gen Patriot in the region.
-
MBDA announces new VSHORAD system at Farnborough International Airshow 2024
The VSHORAD supersonic single-operator interceptor air defence system was unveiled at Farnborough.
-
Raytheon notes CUAS laser success and pushes for faster air defence manufacture
Raytheon’s Patriot air defence system has been in high demand with orders and commitment coming in from Germany, Romania and Spain.
-
BAE Tridon MK2 fitted with Chess Dynamics fire control system
The collaboration between the defence giant and the gunfire control specialist will help deliver a modular anti-drone solution.