Arms manufacturer Barrett has introduced a next-generation version of its 30mm Precision Grenadier System (PGS), aiming to address the evolving requirements of the US Army. This advanced weapon system is a shoulder-fired, semi-automatic grenade rifle, coupled with a 30mm cannon and integrated fire control, optics, and ammunition systems.
The new PGS line empowers infantry squads to effectively target enemies shielded by cover and to engage small unmanned aerial systems at a close range. Moreover, a vehicle-mounted remote weapon system is currently under development, broadening the potential applications for mechanized formations.
Cameron Fraser, Barrett’s PGS Program Manager, highlighted the design’s focus on rapid fielding. He noted that the system aligns with the US Army’s strategy to continuously evolve its capabilities, providing an upgradeable solution that can incorporate advancing technologies.
In May 2025, Barrett collaborated with MARS Inc. to secure victory in the Army’s xTech Soldier Lethality Competition, a move that facilitated the progression of PGS prototypes into government testing. The system is slated for further evaluation at Picatinny Arsenal in 2026, alongside other soldier lethality initiatives, including smart optics, cutting-edge suppressors, and digital fire control systems.
The rollout of Barrett’s PGS is strategically staged to quickly supply soldiers with functional capabilities while permitting subsequent technical enhancements. Throughout all phases of the project, Barrett underscores the importance of modularity, enabling the retrofitting of new fuses, guidance aids, and software based on insights drawn from field trials.
The first iteration, known as Mod 0, is anticipated in 2026. It is designed to feature a disturbed-reticle fire control system, five-round magazines, and four ammunition options suitable for multi-role use. Following this, Mod 1, scheduled for release in 2027, will introduce proximity-fused munitions along with enhanced counter unmanned aerial system (counter-UAS) capabilities. The final version, Mod 2, will consolidate all previous upgrades and will include advanced airburst functionality to facilitate precise strikes at the squad level and counter-defilade operations.
The Precision Grenadier System Program is an integral part of the US Army’s Soldier Lethality portfolio, which seeks to boost the firepower of dismounted infantry through modular, precision-guided weaponry. By bridging the gap between small arms and heavier indirect fire weapons, the PGS equips small units with the necessary tools to neutralize targets behind cover and disable light vehicles without needing artillery support or aerial intervention.
This initiative builds upon the lessons learned from former programs, such as the XM25 Counter Defilade Target Engagement System, which was terminated due to technical difficulties. In contrast to its predecessor, the PGS emphasizes modularity and simplicity, utilizing a semi-automatic, magazine-fed setup with programmable ammunition and enhanced optics.
