General Dynamics, U.S. Ordnance share U.S. Army contract for M2 machine guns

March 31 (UPI) -- General Dynamics and U.S. Ordnance will share a $221 million contract from the U.S. Army to produce M2 machine guns.

The contract includes M2 flexible, M2 fixed and M2A1 machine guns, a product General Dynamics markets as one of the world's most highly accurate and effective weapons.

The M2A1 .50-caliber weapon was developed by General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems as an upgrade for the existing M2 and M2HB weapons. The weapon was designed to simplify warfighter training by providing fixed headspace and timing, easier barrel changing and decreased muzzle flash.

Bids for the contract were solicited through the internet with two received.

According to the U.S. Department of Defense, work locations will be determined with each order. The work is expected to be complete by the end of March 2023. The project will be managed by the U.S. Army Contracting Command.