FN EVOLYS ultralight machine gun from FN Herstal enters service in France and Belgium.

Nicholas Drummond, in a video published on X (formerly Twitter), highlighted the imminent entry into service of the EVOLYS in France and Belgium and expressed his hope to see this weapon also adopted by the United Kingdom. The EVOLYS stands out for its innovative architecture, notably a patented lateral feeding mechanism, which allows for rapid and reliable reloading.
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Video footage of the FN EVOLYS in 7.62mm x 51mm (Picture source: X account of Nicholas Drummond)

Belgian arms manufacturer FN Herstal revealed a major innovation in the field of light weapons with the launch of its ultralight machine gun, EVOLYS. Designed in two calibers, 5.56x45mm NATO and 7.62x51mm NATO, the EVOLYS weighs approximately 6.3 kilograms, making it significantly lighter than the current reference machine guns.

The development of the FN EVOLYS ultralight machine gun by FN Herstal began with a teaser released on April 22, 2021, announcing a "New Chapter". On May 6, FN Herstal released a 20-minute promotional video, presenting the design and technical aspects of the EVOLYS, and revealing its name. In September 2021, the EVOLYS was first presented to the public at the Defence and Security Equipment International trade show in London and entered pre-production the same month.

The EVOLYS was specifically designed for urban combat, which has become more frequent and presents specific requirements. It was developed to enhance the firepower that a single soldier can provide, rather than relying on the base fire of a squad. The development utilized 3D printing and polymers to reduce its weight, making it up to 30% lighter than competing machine guns.

Available in 5.56x45mm or 7.62x51mm NATO calibers, it combines the firing capabilities of a belt-fed machine gun with the ergonomics and balance of an assault rifle. This weapon is characterized by its open and innovative architecture, with unique features.

It is not designed to be mounted on a tripod or integrated into a weapon station, but rather for dedicated support on vehicles. The FN EVOLYS uses proven gas, open bolt, and short-stroke piston technology. It is compact, lightweight (about 5.5 kg for the 5.56mm caliber and 6.2 kg for the 7.62mm), and can be handled like an assault rifle.

The FN EVOLYS is equipped with an ambidextrous fire selector, a long single-piece Picatinny rail, an M-LOCK receiver, and a lower Picatinny rail. It also features a patented lateral feeding mechanism for easy loading and is compatible with a sound suppressor without performance reduction. Designed for quick and instinctive access to all controls, the EVOLYS is fed by a free belt or an FN MINIMI ammunition pouch.

Designed to meet the evolving needs of military forces and modern combat operations, the EVOLYS represents an advance over previous models such as the FN MINIMI or FN MAG. Its reduced weight and excellent balance allow for firing from any position, facilitating the transition between different firing positions.

Currently, the EVOLYS is to be used by the Belgian and French armed forces, and for testing by the British Army and the U.S. Army as part of the Next Generation Squad Weapon program. Its adoption and entry into service mark an evolution in light weaponry, offering increased versatility and efficiency for modern military operations.