Barrett and MARS Inc. were announced as the winners of the U.S. Army’s xTech Soldier Lethality competition, thanks to the joint development of a high-precision 30 mm grenade launcher, created in record time.
The announcement was officially made by Barrett in a press release. In just six months, the team formed by the two companies was able to design, manufacture, test, and demonstrate a new weapon system as part of the Precision Grenadier System (PGS) program.
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The PGS consists of a portable, semi-automatic, magazine-fed system designed to be shoulder-fired. The platform includes the grenade launcher, a fire control system, and a dedicated line of ammunition.
The weapon is designed to deliver rapid and accurate strikes against enemy troops and short-range drones, meeting the tactical needs of the modern battlefield.
Strategic Collaboration and Technological Advances
During the development of the project, Barrett worked closely with the small company MARS, which led the initial support rifle efforts. AMTEC Corporation was responsible for creating a new 30 mm ammunition line, while Precision Targeting developed a fire control system compatible with the new rounds.
The ammunition includes:
- Airburst programmable grenades
- Radio fuse grenades
- Contact detonator grenades
- Close-quarters combat rounds
Although the final specifications of the product have not yet been released, it is known that the prototype — derived from the Squad Support Rifle System — uses 30×42 mm grenades, has a five-round magazine, and weighs 6.35 kg with sight. The effective range is up to 500 meters.
The Squad Support Rifle System was first unveiled in October 2024 as a “support rifle” solution, capable of engaging both personnel and light equipment or UAVs.
“We are thrilled to partner with Barrett, the world’s leading manufacturer of soldier weapons, to enhance our 30 mm support rifle for the U.S. Army’s PGS program,” said Michael Merino, president of MARS Inc.
The new weapon is set to officially compete in the Precision Grenadier System program bid, scheduled for the 2026 fiscal year.
Source and images: Barrett. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
