“The margin for error is nearly zero.” This mantra has frequently been spoken within Special Operations Command ranks to explain why its arsenal consists of nothing like that of more traditional military units. A SOCOM mission set requires weapons that align highly highly for accuracy, silence, adaptability, or brute power. These certainly do not include mass-issue rifles or machine guns that require little skill for competent use. They are mission tools for trained professionals, crafted for very specific duties.
Starting with integrally suppressed carbines for clandestine entry and extending to multi-caliber sniper platforms for rapid swap-outs during a mission, the firearms developed for SOCM represent many years of trench experience distilled into advanced technology. Some represent the next phase of familiar platforms, while others represent experimental technology yet to emerge from the trial phase. What follows is a closer examination of ten of the most noteworthy technologies, each of which remains in the toolbox of America’s quiet professionals to this day.
1. MK17 SCAR-H Common Receiver
The MK17 SCAR-H is more than merely a 7.62mm battle rifle it’s a modular and flexible tool system that is intended to fill the gaps that are left by other platforms that are outdated by comparison, such as the M14.
In terms of the SOCOM Common Receiver model of the SCAR-H, one of the key enhancements is the ability to install the 5.56mm Conversion Kit on the receiver model for SOCOM forces that are using the original 5.56mm caliber system.
Weighing close to eight pounds in a typical configuration, the MK-17 has groupings that approach a minute of angle at a distance of 100 meters and has a mean rounds between stoppages rate that significantly surpasses typical infantry rifles. Its lightness is well-recognized and preferred; however, the reciprocating-handle design is not preferred by all. Its acquisition is still SOCOM-procured because of cost concerns.
2. MRGG-S and MRGG-A in 6.
Advances introduced by SOCOM with the adoption of the 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge in medium-distance engagements have improved significantly. This is owing to the Geissele-manufactured MRGG-S Medium Range Gas Gun-Sniper and LMT MARS-H platform of the MRGG-A ‘Assaulter’ system having twice the probability of hitting the target at 1,000 meters as their 7.62mm equivalents do with their current ammunition. The flatter trajectory and minimized wind
The MRGG-S comes with a 20-inch free-floating barrel and a match trigger, while the 14.5-inch-barreled monolithic upper MRGG-A sports features that serve well in assault missions. Both rifles retain the AR-10 heritage in terms of familiarity in ergonomics combined with improved ballistic capabilities.
3. MCX Rattler .300
For extreme concealability requirements, SOCOM carries the Sig MCX Rattler. The short-barreled firearm operates in .300 Blackout and provides subsonic suppression with terminal effectiveness design for CQB. Its extreme intimate design has made it extremely popular in vehicle operations and stealthy entry applications.
“Elite forces appreciate the silenced Rattler’s ability to stay quiet without losing effectiveness,” said a defense official. “Modularity is a plus, in terms of reconfiguration speeds, allowing it to handle different environments.”
4. MK48 “Super SAW”
The MK48, SOCOM’s 7.62mm light machine gun, strikes a balance between portability and firepower. Recent contracts between FN America involve engineering improvements that can resolve heating and carbon residue issues. Such improvements may consider SOCOM’s interest in the 6.5mm Creedmoor intermediate caliber, which can give the MK48 a renewed role.
In spite of its idiosyncrasies, “the MK48 remains a foundation for Rangers and SEALs requiring mobile and powerful suppression.” Its select use is due to several factors: cost, training, and operational needs.
5. Advanced Sniper Rifle Program
The Advanced Sniper Rifle of SOCOM boasts unparalleled flexibility in terms of caliber change from 7.62 NATO to the .300 Winchester Magnum or .338 Norma Magnum caliber. This flexibility enables a sniper to adjust his rifle according to the requirements of the operation in either overwatch in the urban environment or in the open terrain.
The modular nature and hardiness of the ASR make it a reliable system to work with, even when used in harsh conditions. The cost associated with the system, as a result of its complexity, prevents it from being in the hands of infantry units, thus maintaining the status of the system as an
6. ThermoSight
The Teledyne FLIR HISS-HD cooled thermal camera allows SOCOM sniper and machine gunners to detect the trail of heated rounds in daylight without the characteristically revealing effect of tracer fire. Target detection at ranges in excess of 2,200 meters improves stealth by masking the location of the shooters.
The sight can be mounted ahead of existing optics, export video feeds to command, as well as detect drones. The resolution enables viewers to notice minute movements at very distant ranges. The sight is a game-changer in long-range battles.
7. INOD Block III Thermal Weapon Sight
The INOD Block III allows snipers to attach a cooled thermal sight in front of their day scope without having to re-zero it, and its capabilities extend beyond 2,000 meters by indicating “the heat path of the round after the muzzle flash has dissipated.”
Hot-swappable batteries, ruggedization of all SOCOM sniper platforms, and control knobs amenable to gloved operation make the INOD a desirable choice for extended overwatch positions. The attenuator featured in this sight quickly stabilizes the sight while maintaining a track on projectiles in flight.
8. Honey Badger .300 BLK
The integrally suppressed Honey Badger allows SOCOM units to function almost silently, with a compact urban weapon that is highly useful for tier-1 operations where a degree of stealth is required for missions like covert entries.
The chambering of this rifle is .300 Blackout and it has the capability of subsonic shooting and it is also lightweight for speedy operation in tight locations. The scope of Honey Badger tasks makes it non-existent in military arsenals.
9. MK 32 Multi-Shot Gren
The MK32 is used to equip elite forces with six-round 40mm capabilities intended for quick suppression or area denial. Its accuracy in firing volleys is what makes this tool essential in conducting direct action.
The MK32 is simply too heavy and specialized for conventional infantry use, and the SOCOM environment is where it excels because its flexibility can then be fully utilized with a variety of rounds, starting with high explosives and ending with smoke rounds.
10. Breaching Shot
The Benelli M4-based breaching shotguns allow the SOCOM assault teams to quickly overcome locks and barriers. Even if they are stationary and autonomous systems, they are reliable and incorporate modular breaching capabilities. Their specialty in CQ entry sets them apart specifically for the SEALs, Rangers, and Special Forces. In a raid mission that requires speed and SureFire results, these shotguns are a necessity. The arsenal of SOCOM is an exemplar of functionally adequate design. Each of these weapons and accessories has a particular use in mind, and often this use includes several functions in one design.
Take, for example, rifles that can change caliber or thermal sighting systems that can trace the path of bullets. These are restricted access products, not just because of price but because they require a high degree of skill and training that can only be given to highly trained troops. For military buffs, this is an insight into what marks America’s elite troops as different.
