Belgian arms manufacturer FN Herstal has showcased its EVOLYS ultralight machine gun at a defense equipment convention in the UK.
The weapon is available in 5.56×45-millimeter and 7.62×51-millimeter, both in NATO standard, to give infantry and special forces a balance of mobility, firepower, and endurance.
FN Herstal said the system “combines the firing capabilities of a belt-fed machine gun with the ergonomics and balance of an assault rifle,” allowing troops to carry more ammunition and maintain suppressive fire with reduced strain.
Lighter 5.56-millimeter Variant
The EVOLYS 5.56-millimeter version weighs 5.5 kilograms (12 pounds), nearly one-third lighter than the Minimi introduced in the 1970s. It is tailored for close- to medium-range engagements, giving dismounted units greater mobility and ammunition capacity in urban or complex terrain.
The weapon uses a gas-operated, open-bolt system with a short-stroke piston. It has a 356-millimeter (14-inch) barrel and measures 865 to 950 millimeters (34 to 37 inches) in length depending on stock position.
At 125 millimeters (5 inches) wide, it fires about 750 rounds per minute. Feeding options include free belts or FN Minimi-compatible pouches of 100 or 200 rounds, with an effective range of roughly 800 meters (2,625 feet).
Extended-Range 7.62-millimeter Variant
Meanwhile, the EVOLYS 7.62-millimeter model weighs just over 6.2 kilograms (14 pounds) and is designed to deliver long-range firepower without the burden of older weapons, addressing the trade-off between maneuverability and reach faced by infantry squads for decades.
This version carries a 406-millimeter (16-inch) barrel, with an overall length of 948 to 1,033 millimeters (37 to 41 inches) and a width of 132 millimeters (5 inches).
It fires around 700 rounds per minute and is compatible with free belts or FN Minimi-style pouches, typically holding 50 rounds. Its effective range extends to about 1,000 meters (3,280 feet).
Features for Modern Missions
Both EVOLYS configurations feature a hybrid firing mode that switches between automatic and semi-automatic fire.
They are optimized for suppressor use, with reinforced gas regulation and muzzle devices to reduce sound and flash, a feature suited for covert and counterterrorism missions.
The firearms’ ergonomic elements include ambidextrous controls, an adjustable folding stock, and multiple accessory mounts. They also have a tool-free, quick-change barrel that supports sustained engagements, as well as advanced polymer components that keep weight low without sacrificing durability.
