Geissele Automatics unveils HICAR for SOCOM hypervelocity program

Geissele Automatics has introduced the Hypervelocity Improved Capability Assault Rifle (HICAR), a production-ready platform designed for the U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) program. The project aims to extend the effective range of the M4-style carbine from 300 meters to 600 meters using specialized hypervelocity 5.56mm ammunition.

The increased range is achieved through significantly higher chamber pressures. The military’s developmental round, designated M855A1+, is loaded to approximately 82,000 PSI, which is about 20,000 PSI higher than legacy 5.56mm ammunition. Geissele’s demonstration loads have reportedly exceeded 85,000 PSI, allowing a 77-grain bullet to exit an 11.5-inch barrel at roughly 2,700 feet per second.

SOCOM has initiated live-fire evaluations of candidate rifles at Fort Moore, Georgia. The HICAR program seeks to improve flight stability and ballistic profiles at long distances without requiring changes to existing magazines, optics, or operator training.