FN Herstal launches M3M ENDURANCE .50 caliber machine gun

FN Herstal has introduced the FN M3M ENDURANCE, a modernized .50 caliber machine gun system designed to increase operational availability and reduce maintenance workloads. The new version features a 50% increase in service life, with barrel life extending from 40,000 to 60,000 rounds.

Maintenance intervals have also been significantly improved, increasing from 5,000 to 15,000 rounds between services. Despite these upgrades, the weapon maintains its high firing rate of 1,100 rounds per minute. The system is designed for seamless integration across air, land, and sea platforms, including fixed defense structures, and is intended to counter emerging threats such as counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS).

The integrated system includes accessories such as the FN ELITY LITE laser range finder and IR laser pointer, as well as the FN SMARTCORE shot counter for optimized maintenance tracking. The weapon operates mechanically without the need for external power, ensuring readiness during power failures.