Barrett recently announced ongoing development and evaluation of a 6.8x51mm caliber conversion kit for the Barrett MRAD MK 22 Advanced Sniper Rifle system currently fielded by the U.S. Army. The conversion kit aims to provide increased flexibility for warfighters seeking to employ the enhanced terminal performance of 6.8x51mm ammunition.
“Barrett remains focused on ensuring the warfighter maintains a decisive capability advantage through continued innovation and adaptation of proven sniper systems,” said Ryan Krantz, Vice President of Business Development & Sales for Barrett, in a press release. “As ammunition technology and battlefield requirements evolve, Barrett is committed to remaining the leader in long range by delivering adaptable, mission-ready solutions for the Department of War.”
Expanding Warfighter Capabilities
The project looks to support the high-pressure, high-performance 6.8x51mm cartridge used across the U.S. Army’s Next-Generation small arms platform. That includes the M7 rifle, M250 Automatic Rifle, and the M157 Fire Control System. The conversion kit gives operators in the field using the MK 22 sniper system another lethal tool in the toolbox.
Barrett’s testing focuses on maturing the barrel kit and magazine configuration necessary for reliable and effective employment of the 6.8x51mm cartridge. Conducted independently by Barrett, the effort attempts to ensure capability should operational requirements emerge calling for the updated system.
In addition to operational ammunition variants, the conversion kit will also accommodate reduced-range training ammunition, supporting both combat capability and training flexibility.
The world of ammunition capability and performance is rapidly expanding, recently evidenced by Federal’s new 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak ammunition. These new technologies will no doubt continue to run concurrently with and push advancement for martial applications.
