Inside SOCOM’s Search For New Machine Guns, Rifles And Ammo

Summary

U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) is actively pursuing next-generation small arms and ammunition programs to give special operators more lethal, accurate, and lighter weapons capable of engaging targets at extended ranges. A key initiative is the Hypervelocity Improved Carbine (HICAR) program, which seeks to develop a carbine that fires standard 5.56 NATO ammunition while also being compatible with future hypervelocity rounds, leveraging advanced steel-case ammunition technology that offers improved performance at potentially lower cost than traditional brass casings. SOCOM is also progressing with its Mid-Range Gas Gun program, with the sniper variant already being fielded since 2023 and the assault variant from Lewis Machine & Tool recently entering procurement, offering point-target engagement capability beyond 1,200 meters in 6.5mm Creedmoor. The .338 Norma Magnum Light Machine Gun-Medium program has been largely paused, though a small combat evaluation fielding to a select unit is underway to assess real-world performance. Additionally, SOCOM has entered an Other Transaction Authority contract for a new Lightweight Machine Gun-Assault in 7.62mm, with multiple competitors developing designs intended to replace the MK 48 by the Fiscal Year 2028-2029 timeframe.