France and Belgium Considering Major Order of Evolys Machine Guns from FN Herstal
Discussions between the French and Belgian armies for the acquisition of a major order of Evolys machine guns from FN Herstal are underway, according to information from La Lettre. Developed by the Belgian arms manufacturer, the FN Evolys is an ultralight machine gun that combines the firepower of a machine gun with the ergonomics and maneuverability of an assault rifle.
The interest in the Evolys is major, and its adoption by all units of the French Army would represent an important step in modernizing military equipment. This massive order could also signal strengthened cooperation between the two nations in defense and military technology, continuing their recent announcement of a collaboration for the production of various caliber munitions.
The FN Evolys is an ultralight machine gun of a new generation developed by the Belgian company FN Herstal. Designed to meet the current needs of military forces, this weapon stands out for its lightweight, maneuverability, and technical innovations. It is available in two calibers, 5.56×45 mm, and 7.62×51 mm NATO, combining the firepower of a machine gun with the ergonomics of an assault rifle.
One of the most notable features of the FN Evolys is its reduced weight, reaching only 5.5 kg for the 5.56 mm caliber model and 6.2 kg for the 7.62 mm caliber model. To achieve this lightness, FN Herstal used next-generation materials and advanced technologies without compromising the weapon’s reliability, safety, and durability. Its design allows firing from any position and facilitates transitions between different firing positions thanks to a well-thought-out sling attachment interface.
The Evolys also stands out for its open and innovative architecture. It is equipped with a monolithic Picatinny rail on top, allowing multiple optics to be mounted in-line without removing the mechanical sights. Additionally, the weapon integrates a patented lateral feeding system that helps the ammunition belt to be loaded with one hand, providing great assurance for the user in case of improper belt positioning.
This machine gun features an ambidextrous fire selector with a semi-automatic position for precision shooting and an automatic position for suppressive fire. The rate of fire is about 750 rounds per minute, and the effective range varies from 800 meters for the 5.56 mm caliber to 1,000 meters for the 7.62 mm caliber. The FN Evolys is also equipped with an adjustable buttstock in length and height, similar to that of FN SCAR assault rifles, and can be fitted with various accessories, including a bipod for increased firing stability.
Finally, the FN Evolys is designed for intensive use with a suppressor, with no loss of performance or excessive fouling. This feature, combined with its other innovations, makes it a revolutionary weapon in the field of ultralight machine guns.
In conclusion, the Evolys from FN Herstal, thanks to its innovative features and field performance, is potentially on its way to becoming standard equipment not only for special forces but for all regiments of the French Army as well as those in Belgium, marking a key step in the evolution of European military armament.