Next Generation Squad Weapons l 6.8mm Weapons & Ammo for Army NGSW l EXCLUSIVE With Textron Systems

Published on October 9, 2020
Duration: 13:42

This guide covers the handling and functional aspects of the Textron Systems Next Generation Squad Weapon (NGSW) prototypes, including the Battle Rifle and Automatic Rifle variants. It details the innovative 6.8mm Case Telescoped ammunition, its performance advantages, and the ergonomic features designed for soldier transition. The NGSW Automatic Rifle's significant weight reduction and the Battle Rifle's ambidextrous controls are highlighted, drawing on insights from retired Special Forces experts and Textron Systems engineers.

Quick Summary

The Next Generation Squad Weapon (NGSW) program introduces the 6.8mm Case Telescoped (CT) ammunition, featuring a polymer case for reduced weight and length. This design enables higher ballistic pressures handled by the weapon, resulting in superior terminal energy and range. The NGSW Automatic Rifle offers a 35% weight reduction over the M249 SAW, while the Battle Rifle boasts ambidextrous controls for seamless M4/M16 transition.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to NGSW Program
  2. 01:266.8mm Case Telescoped Ammunition
  3. 02:54Technical Advantages of CT Ammo
  4. 03:46Lethality and Barrier Penetration
  5. 04:35Ergonomics and Soldier Transition
  6. 05:18Automatic Rifle Variant Details
  7. 07:10Rationale for 6.8mm Caliber Selection
  8. 09:37Live Fire: NGSW Battle Rifle
  9. 11:04Live Fire: NGSW Automatic Rifle

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main advantage of the 6.8mm Case Telescoped (CT) ammunition for the Next Generation Squad Weapon (NGSW)?

The 6.8mm CT ammunition's polymer case and internal projectile design reduce weight and overall length. Crucially, it allows higher ballistic pressures to be handled by the weapon's steel components, leading to superior terminal energy and range compared to traditional ammunition.

How does the NGSW Automatic Rifle improve soldier loadout?

The NGSW Automatic Rifle variant is designed to replace the M249 SAW and offers a significant weight reduction of approximately 35% for the entire system, including ammunition and links. This addresses the critical need to reduce the physical burden on soldiers in the field.

What ergonomic features are included in the NGSW Battle Rifle?

The NGSW Battle Rifle prioritizes soldier transition by incorporating fully ambidextrous controls, mirroring the muscle memory developed with M4/M16 platforms. Features like the magazine release, bolt lock, and selector are designed for intuitive operation by both right and left-handed shooters.

What is the terminal ballistics performance of the 6.8mm NGSW round?

The 6.8mm NGSW round demonstrates enhanced lethality and energy delivery at extended ranges. Visual demonstrations show its effectiveness in defeating body armor plates and penetrating hard barriers, surpassing the capabilities of the current 5.56mm standard issue ammunition.

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