US Army Successfully Concludes Arctic Testing of Next-Generation Squad Weapon

Defense News ,U.S :-  The US Army has successfully completed rigorous cold weather testing of its Next-Generation Squad Weapon (NGSW) in preparation for deployment to the 101st Airborne Division later this year.

Soldiers stationed in Alaska conducted tests with the XM7 rifles and XM250 automatic rifles, facing temperatures as low as -35 degrees Fahrenheit (-37 degrees Celsius) while engaging in various mission-oriented tasks.

The primary objective of the testing was to assess the NGSW's performance and support capabilities in extreme Arctic conditions. Major Brandon Davis, a member of the Soldier Lethality Cross-Functional Team (SL CFT), emphasized the importance of understanding how atmospheric conditions impact weapon functionality and soldier mobility.

"Extreme cold can affect the weapon’s functionality, of course, but it also hinders a soldier’s movement and mobility," explained Maj. Davis. "We're getting after every aspect of how the NGSW impacts lethality and mobility under extreme conditions."

Results from the Arctic test will soon be shared with Army senior leaders to inform further developments.

Brigadier General Monté Rone, director of the SL CFT, highlighted the shift in the approach to developing and fielding military capabilities. Unlike the past, where soldiers were provided with weapons deemed necessary by the service, the current process involves keeping soldiers engaged at every step.

"We do things differently now, keeping soldiers engaged in every step of the process in a variety of soldier touchpoints," said Brig. Gen. Rone. "So we will give them the weapons they need to be more lethal and more survivable on the battlefield."

Prior to the Arctic testing at the Cold Regions Test Center in Fort Greely, Alaska, a platoon within the 101st Airborne Division conducted a limited user test to assess the weapon's capabilities and limitations.

Looking ahead, the US Army plans to subject the NGSW to testing in extreme heat and humidity later this year, providing a comprehensive evaluation of its performance across diverse environmental conditions.

The NGSW program, addressing range, accuracy, and lethality challenges for close combat forces, saw Sig Sauer emerge victorious with its XM5 and XM250 proposals. The US Army aims to procure more than 18,000 NGSWs within the next decade, backed by $331 million in funding.