The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has awarded a £20 million contract to FN UK, the nation’s sole machine gun manufacturer, to upgrade and sustain the L111A1 Heavy Machine Gun (HMG) fleet, also known as the FN® M2HB-QCB.
The 10-year deal, signed through the MoD’s procurement arm Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), includes a Mid-Life Improvement (MLI) Programme and long-term through-life support for the weapon system used across both the British Army and Royal Navy.
Enhancing Capability and Reducing Costs
The MLI Programme will address system obsolescence, enhance performance, and improve reliability while reducing long-term support costs. The MoD highlighted that the upgrades will extend the weapon’s service life, ensuring the L111A1 remains combat-ready for current and future operations.
The L111A1 HMG is a vital component of the UK Armed Forces’ firepower, widely deployed across land and naval platforms.
Industry Commitment and Local Benefits
All upgrade and sustainment work will take place at FN UK’s Kent facility, safeguarding existing jobs and generating new employment opportunities.
Julien Compère, CEO of FN Browning Group, emphasized FN’s commitment:
“We are indeed proud to support the British Armed Forces through this 10-year contract. It means our soldiers will always have reliable heavy machine guns ready for action. This truly reflects FN’s mission: to empower those who serve, defend, and protect us with the most dependable Defence & Security solutions.”
He added that the contract provides long-term stability, strengthening the UK’s security of supply and ensuring strategic autonomy in small arms manufacturing.
FN UK’s 50-Year Legacy
The announcement coincides with the 50th anniversary of FN UK’s operations in Britain. Michelle Cantoni, CEO of FN UK, underscored the long-standing partnership with the MoD:
“FN UK’s involvement in this programme highlights our industrial capabilities in the United Kingdom and our unwavering commitment to supporting the British Armed Forces. This agreement demonstrates the solid, trusting bond we’ve built with the Ministry of Defence over time, honouring our history while looking confidently toward the future.”
