In a significant production milestone, Sig Sauer has announced that it has manufactured 100 million rounds of 6.8-millimeter ammunition at its facility in Jacksonville, Arkansas. This achievement signals a promising trajectory for the American small arms contractor as it aims to double its shell output in the coming years.
The production milestone is closely tied to Sig Sauer’s involvement in the U.S. Army’s Next Generation Squad Weapon (NGSW) program, which is designed to deliver enhanced “lethality and probability” for troops in the field. This initiative focuses on developing a common munition intended to improve performance for squad-level engagements.
Since 2017, Sig Sauer has invested over $225 million into upgrading its manufacturing capabilities in Arkansas. This investment has not only expanded the firm’s operations but has also created more than 600 local jobs, injecting approximately $300 million into the regional economy annually. The Jacksonville site now features six major production hubs spread across nearly 100 acres, including a recently completed 210,000-square-foot building dedicated to its manufacturing efforts.
Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders praised the milestone, stating, “This incredible accomplishment proves what we already know: Arkansas is an arsenal for democracy.” She expressed pride in Sig Sauer’s commitment to the workforce and the local community, highlighting the importance of the Second Amendment.
Under the NGSW program, Sig Sauer is utilizing its proprietary 6.8-millimeter system to supply advanced rifles and automatic weapons. This new ammunition replaces the traditional 5.56 and 7.62 calibers that have been standard for squad-level teams. The system couples modern fire control technology with the ability to deliver precision or burst shots effectively.
As part of the initiative, Sig Sauer is preparing to deploy its XM5 and XM250 ambidextrous rifles, which are set to become central components of the U.S. Army’s next generation of weaponry.
