Next Generation Squad Weapon – A revolution in combat weapons for U.S. Army infantry?
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Kopeć J. - A133 - A.pdf (446.26 KB)
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Date
2014-10
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Uniwersytet Jagielloński
Abstract
In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in military expenditure of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and the Russian Federation. This trend has raised concerns especially in the United States, since the PRC’s authorities want it to emerge as a global superpower. The importance of this country in international relations is also increasing due to a decline in Russia’s capabilities, which results from the ongoing war in Ukraine (however, it should be noted that Russia still remains an influential actor). Those ambitious plans have prompted a response from Washington, accelerating the strategic competition across various domains, including the military one. In this field, it is manifested in technological advancements, which refers not only to highly complex weapon systems, such as aircraft or vessels, but also to individual equipment. Among many components of the American response to Chinese and Russian activities, the Next Generation Squad Weapon (NGSW) program is worth mentioning. This is because its purpose is to replace the AR-15 family of firearms, which have remained in service within the U.S. Army for over 60 years, with a completely new armament system. However, it should be noted that its implementation will initially be limited to units designated for direct combat operations (referred to as close combat units). Similarly, soldiers who have operated the M249 light machine gun so far are going to be armed with a next-generation weapon system. Notably, the program is not limited to developing firearms. Particularly, its other components consist of an advanced telescopic sight and a new type of ammunition. Owing to the fact that these weapon systems are currently being introduced into service, it is worth considering if their implementation will represent a breakthrough for the U.S. Army infantry. If so, what consequences might emerge from this change? In order to answer this question, particular elements of the program are going to be examined, after a brief overview of its history. The analysis is going to be based on articles, official statements and other materials published by the U.S. Army and the manufacturers of the new weapon systems.
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Citation
Jan Kopeć, Next Generation Squad Weapon – A revolution in combat weapons for U.S. Army infantry?, Analiza „KBN” 2024, nr 3 (133), 7 X 2024 r.