General Dynamics debuts new machine gun

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CHARLOTTE, N.C., May 16 (UPI) -- A new machine gun with a punch similar to a .50-caliber weapon but lighter in weight has been displayed by General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products.

The weapon – the Lightweight Medium Machine Gun – was developed by the company at its own expense and is being showcased at the Joint

"The LWMMG is an affordable weapon that closes a current operational gap, providing .50 caliber-like firepower in range and effect at the same weight and size of currently fielded 7.62mm machine guns," said Steve Elgin, vice president and general manager of armament systems for General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products. "Weighing in at 24 pounds and featuring a fully collapsible stock, the LWMMG offers superior mobility and portability in both mounted and dismounted operations."

The LWMMG uses a .338 Norma Magnum cartridge for increased accuracy and lethality out to 1,700 yards, has a maximum firing rate of 500 rounds per minute, a maximum range of 5,642 yards and it is equipped with technology allowing for quickly changing the barrel. It can be used on vehicles, by dismounted troops, on helicopters and ships. The company said.

"By employing the larger .338 NM round, the LWMMG delivers twice the range and dramatically increases lethality above the 7.62 round," said Elgin. "In addition, the LWMMG goes beyond providing suppressive fire and gives warfighters the ability to attack point targets at significantly extended ranges.

"The LWMMG is a well-designed machine gun ideally suited to provide long-range lethality to U.S. and allied forces," Elgin said.