M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW)

M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW) Accessories

Provides the Soldier using the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon with accessories for enhanced
performance.
M249 SAW Collapsible Buttstock
The M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW) Collapsible Buttstock allows shoulder firing in the
extended and collapsed positions. It maintains a vertical buttstock position for full interface with
the operator’s shoulder at all times and provides intermediate, locking firing positions. Weapon
control thus improves when fired in confined spaces such as military operations in urban
terrain. The buttstock allows ease of ingress/egress from Stryker Brigade Combat Team (SBCT)
vehicles and reduces storage space requirements in SBCTs. It is currently in production. A
redesigned version, which provides additional adjustment capability, is currently going through
final design verification. The first production units are expected to be fielded in August 2010.
SAW Improved Bipod
The SAW Improved Bipod enhances the design of the existing bipod to improve the
performance of the M249 weapon, providing the Soldier with increased reliability and weapon
accuracy. The bipod legs can be adjusted to different heights, resulting in improved stability on
uneven terrain. M249s are currently being delivered with the Improved Bipod while additional
assets are being distributed in conjunction with RFI fielding to retrofit fielded weapons slated for
deployment.
M249 200-Round Soft Pack
The M249 200-Round Soft Pack program is a follow-on effort to the soft packs initially
provided under the Rapid Fielding Initiative (RFI). Based on requests from the field, RFI fielded
a 200-round soft pack for the M249 that was designed to improve weapon retention and
reduce the noise signature associated with the standard plastic ammunition container. This
follow-on program led to the selection of a new design and resolved all issues identified
with the fielded pack. User testing has validated the equipment’s performance. An initial
production option was awarded in August 2008 for 9,000 M249 200-Round Soft Packs. This
option fulfilled requirements for the U.S. government to obtain government purpose rights for
competitive procurement. Two competitive Indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contracts were
subsequently awarded in August 2009.