The United Kingdom is poised to enhance the firepower of its military forces following the awarding of a substantial £20 million ($27.3 million) contract to FN Herstal, a prominent arms manufacturer. This initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at modernizing frontline weapons and bolstering combat capabilities within the British Army and Royal Navy.
The extensive upgrade program, described by the UK Ministry of Defense, combines a two-year mid-life improvement initiative with eight years of dedicated in-service support. This dual approach aims to ensure that the L111A1 heavy machine gun continues to deliver significant firepower in various operational contexts.
FN Herstal stands as the sole manufacturer of military assault rifles and machine guns in the UK and will conduct the upgrades at its facility in Kent. The delivery of the upgraded machine guns is planned in phases: 18 percent of the units are expected to be delivered by March 2026, followed by 50 percent by March 2027, and the remaining 32 percent by March 2028.
In a statement reflecting on this significant contract, FN Herstal expressed pride in its long-standing partnership with the UK Ministry of Defense, particularly as it marks its 50th year of manufacturing in the country. The company emphasized its commitment to enhancing the performance of the iconic weapon system, ensuring it remains effective for operational needs.
The L111A1 machine gun itself is an upgraded variant of the renowned Browning M2, known for its versatility in various combat scenarios. It can be utilized in ground operations when mounted on a tripod or fitted to military vehicles, providing commanders with flexible options for both defensive and offensive strategies. The upgraded features include a soft mount and a quick-change barrel, which are designed to reduce recoil and improve accuracy, allowing soldiers to engage targets at distances up to 2,000 meters (6,600 feet). Weighing approximately 32 kilograms (70 pounds), the gun fires .50-caliber rounds from a 50-round belt at a rate of 485 to 635 rounds per minute.
British Army Head of Military Capability Delivery, Nick Serle, noted that this mid-life upgrade will significantly enhance the lethality of close combat units, ensuring they are better equipped for the challenges they face in contemporary warfare. The upgrades underscore the UK’s commitment to maintaining a modern and effective armed forces capable of operational success in diverse environments.
