New Cartridge Developments and Implications for Dismounted Infantry Soldiers

[LRRPF52]

If the LMG only weighs 9.4lbs, a carbine with a belt-fed mechanism could weigh what an M4 does. With the right configuration of the weapon, you could have an Adaptable Weapon System with 50-100rds on the gun as the norm. Magazines don't really appeal to me with the capabilities LSAT brings to the table and the mag-fed carbine design concept they show is much bulkier than the LMG.

Why ruin a good thing? The logical approach for now would be to pursue a 6.5mm LMG, and take it toe-to-toe with M240L and PKM's to show what we already know.

Drop the SAW and M240 like bad habits in the same move as they build the production lines up for the 6.5mm projectiles. Leave M4's with the M4A2 program upgrades, and let units start to see that this system could make the assault rifle obsolete. I can tell you right now that the first time more senior NCO's and soldiers with combat experience get their hands on a 9.4lb LMG with ammo that weighs 40% less than current 5.56, lightbulbs are going to start going off.

I can hear even the PSG right now. "Hell, with a shorter barrel, I could carry one of these and not think twice about it!"

Squad Leaders and Team Leaders will be thinking the same thing. Biggest question for me right now is what will happen with Grenadiers.