On March 28, 2024, Ukrainian forces released new images on their social media platforms showcasing the Heckler & Koch MG5 machine guns, confirming the delivery of 100 such weapons by the German government to Ukrainian special forces units, as was announced on February 26, 2024. Renowned for their precision and reliability, these advanced firearms are now actively utilized by various specialized units and the International Legion.
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Heckler & Koch MG5 Machine Gun in Ukraine (Picture source: Ukraine social media)
The Heckler & Koch MG5, also referred to as the HK121 during its development, is a 7.62×51mm NATO belt-fed general-purpose machine gun manufactured by German company Heckler & Koch. Development of the MG5 started soon after the MG4, with its first presentation as HK MG43 at the MILIPOL 2001 trade show in Paris. A prototype, the HK121, was publicly shown in July 2010 at an infantry event in Hammelburg.
In June 2013, the German government announced the testing and evaluation of 65 MG5 units, intending to purchase at least 7,114 for the Bundeswehr from 2014 to 2017, with potential expansion to 12,733 units. The MG5 was aimed to replace the MG3 from Rheinmetall in German service beginning in 2015, offering advantages like improved accuracy and effective range due to a reduced rate of fire, which also leads to ammunition conservation. The weapon is designed with user-adjustable ergonomics.
Featuring a 55-centimeter standard barrel, bipod, and an adjustable stock, the MG5 is equipped with a telescopic sight offering four times magnification and a red dot sighting device. The German federal government has allocated 7.3 million euros for the development of a special bolt for training cartridges, with integration costs of the MG5 into various mounts and weapon stations estimated at around 60 million euros.
The MG5 operates with a long-stroke gas piston and fires from an open bolt, incorporating design elements from the MG4. It has a quick-change barrel, ambidextrous safety, and adjustable stock. The operation is similar to the MG4 but with enhancements like a steel receiver for durability and a three-position gas port for controlling the rate of fire. The MG5 also supports various optical sights and accessories with STANAG 4694 NATO Accessory Rails.
Germany's initiative to equip Ukraine with MG5 machine guns underscores Berlin's ongoing support for Kyiv amidst the current conflict, demonstrating confidence in the Ukrainian forces' ability to effectively use these advanced weapons for the defense of their country.
Heckler & Koch MG5 Machine Gun (Picture source: Army Recognition)
