UK Royal Marines Adopt Sig Sauer MCX Rifles for Elite Commando Operations

The UK Commando Force, an elite unit within the Royal Marines, has officially adopted the Sig Sauer MCX rifle, marking a significant shift in their small arms arsenal. With over 1,500 rifles now in service, this move is part of a £6 million ($7.7 million) investment facilitated by British firearms distributor Edgar Brothers. The new weapons will replace older models from Colt Canada while complementing the existing Knights Armament Stoner 1 (KS-1) rifles.

Enhanced Firepower for Specialized Missions

Designed for extreme conditions, the Sig Sauer MCX will be deployed primarily by the Commando Forces operating with the Royal Navy’s Littoral Response Groups. These specialized units are tasked with high-stakes missions, including counter-terrorism and rapid-response operations worldwide.

Lieutenant Colonel Olly Osborne, who is part of the Commando Force Programme team, emphasized the importance of this upgrade, stating, "These rifles reinforce the commitment of the Navy and Defence to our transformation, and the value the Commando Force provides to our national and international security."

To ensure operational effectiveness, the Marines have undergone rigorous training with the MCX, including force-on-force drills and live-fire exercises, preparing them for combat in diverse and hostile environments.

Sig Sauer MCX: Versatility and Performance

While the Royal Navy has not disclosed the exact configuration of the procured rifles, the MCX is known for its modularity and adaptability. This firearm is capable of accommodating multiple calibers, including:

• 5.56x45mm NATO
• .300 Blackout
• 7.62x39mm
• 6.8mm Fury
• 5.56mm SIG Fury

The rifle also offers various barrel lengths to suit different combat scenarios:

• 406mm (16-inch) Patrol Version – Ideal for standard infantry engagements
• 229mm (9-inch) Short-Barreled Rifle – Optimized for close-quarters battle

A key feature of the MCX is its short-stroke gas piston system, which reduces recoil and enhances reliability, particularly in adverse conditions.

A Tactical Leap for the UK’s Elite Forces

The introduction of the Sig Sauer MCX reflects the Royal Marines' commitment to modernization and adaptability. With these new rifles, the UK Commando Force gains a highly capable and mission-flexible weapon system, ensuring they remain at the forefront of modern warfare and global security operations.