According to a statement from FN America, the US Army has awarded it a $2 million contract under the Prototype Project Opportunity Notice (PPON) program for the further development of the Precision Grenadier system, a new—generation main combat weapon and a family of ammunition that allows targeted fire and destroy targets with greater lethality and accuracy compared to traditional tactical grenade launchers.
It is reported that the 30 mm multipurpose tactical grenade launcher (MTL-30™) was developed in the USA and will be manufactured by FN America at its plant in South Carolina. According to the developer, we are talking about a portable semi-automatic grenade launcher with a medium rate of fire with a flat trajectory. The weapon allows military personnel to hit targets at longer ranges with greater efficiency than using existing technologies.
Tactical grenade launcher FN MTL-30
After thorough testing, the FN solution has successfully passed the verification for compliance with the key criteria of the US Department of Defense, as well as demonstrated the desired characteristics. In addition, this model is easily implemented and maintained from a logistical point of view thanks to modern production technologies, which ensures the cost-effectiveness of the program.
It is believed that "once developed and implemented, this weapon system can radically change future combat strategies. It will provide new squad-level capabilities and improved tactical options, providing the military with a more effective system."
The FN MTL-30 tactical grenade launcher is the first in this family of launchers and ammunition. The weapon is designed for 30 mm grenades with an average flight speed and is equipped with a detachable box magazine for 3 or 5 rounds. With a length of only 35 inches (889mm) and a height of 8.5 inches (215mm), the weapon weighs just over 10 pounds (4.5 kg).
Tactical grenade launcher FN MTL-30
The shutter delay, magazine eject button and fuse switch are located on both sides. There is an M4-style telescopic stock with a modular cheek rest. The modular rail system has a continuous upper rail for mounting visual expansion systems and other devices, as well as M-LOK® side slots with a MIL-STD Picatinny rail.
For a soldier, the FN MTL-30 tactical grenade launcher is lighter and more convenient to use than previous models. Thanks to current reviews from soldiers, a prototype was created that is much more convenient to use and has dimensions familiar to users thanks to the controls, handle and butt in the M4 style.
The system is equipped with a launcher with soft firing and low recoil, which allows you to quickly hit targets with high efficiency using an extremely controlled system. In addition, the modular FN system is fully user-serviceable and has a high degree of compatibility with existing components.
It is believed that the system created is much lighter, more compact and more maneuverable than previous hand grenade launchers. This will increase the effectiveness of soldiers on the battlefield, providing a reliable solution for hitting targets at a range of up to 500 m or to combat other threats such as UAVs.
Source: fnamerica.com
