In May 2021, FN
Herstal launched FN EVOLYS, a new “ultra-light” machine gun of 5.56 × 45 mm or
7.62 × 51 mm calibre. FN EVOLYS weighs 2.5
kg less than the MINIMI light machine gun, and the gap is even greater with the
7.62 × 51 mm calibre [6.2 kg against 8.8 kg]. As a result, this weapon combines
the firepower of a machine gun with the characteristics of an assault rifle.
According to FN
Herstal, it is possible to attach several optics in line without removing the “mechanical
sights” on FN EVOLYS. The company also ensures that” all operations are easy,
intuitive and fast for all users “, whether right-handed or left-handed and
that” all actions can be performed with one hand, including feeding the
ammunition strip ”.
Equipped with an
adjustable butt in both length and height, the FN EVOLYS offers a fire selector
allowing the fighter to choose between semi-automatic fire [as with a rifle] or
automatic fire, as with a machine gun. The tur rate is regulated by a hydraulic
shock absorber, which reduces the recoil force.
