February 2, 2022. Wouldn’t it be cool to have your rifle scope include a built-in laser rangefinder and a weather sensor? And even wireless communication? That would be awesome, and that is why the Pentagon has spent at least $20 million to purchase Vortex Optics’ “Next Generation Squad Weapon-Fire Control (NGSW-FC”) optic. Vortex Optics will supply up to 250,000 XM157 NGSWFC optics in the next 10 years under this contract. These XM157 optics have a remarkable set of features, including a variable magnification optic and a backup etched reticle. They also include a laser rangefinder, ballistic calculator and ballistic calculator. A compass, Intra Soldier Wireless, visible and far-infrared aiming lasers, and a digital overlay. The new XM157 smart optical is described as a “computer atop a weapon” because it can calculate range and ballistics, atmospherics and directional information. The new fire control system will replace close combat optics, rifle combat optics, and machine guns optics used by U.S. Special Operations units and Marine Corps infantry units. It can calculate range, ballistics, atmospherics, directional information, and digital overlay. The XM157 is based upon a 1-8x30mm LPVO equipped with a glass-etched reticle and USA-made lenses. The combined weight of traditional LPVOs and weapon-mounted Laser Rangefinders is less than the XM157. Vortex Contract Worth at Most $20 Million… and Potentially $2.7 Billillion!
The NGSW-FC Optic contract stipulates Vortex will receive at most $20 million from the Pentagon, with a starting price set at $20 million. This will include the XM157 advanced optics, as well as spare parts, repairs, and engineering service. The contract will be fulfilled by Vortex’s subsidiary Sheltered Wings. Guns.com reported that the 10-year contract covers production and delivery of up 250,000 XM157 Next Gen Squad Weapons-Fire Controller systems. The NGSWFC will be the common sight of the Army’s new NGSW–Rifle. This rifle will replace the M4 Carbine in front-line service and the NGSW–Automatic Rifle which is the intended replacement for M249 Squad Automatic Weapon. The minimum contract amount is $20 million. If all options are exhausted, a $2.7 billion maximum is possible. This means that each NGSWFC optic will cost around $10,800. It is important to note that the contract does not only include the sights, but also includes contractor support, spare parts and engineering efforts. This likely means that the per-unit cost will be significantly lower than what the basic math would suggest. Vortex Nation Podcast about NGSW Fire Control Optic. The Pentagon selected Vortex to provide its Next Generation Squad Weapon – Fire Control Optic (NGSWFC). But what exactly is an NGSWFC? What will Vortex’s new scope replace? What weapons will it eventually use? What features/capabilities does it have? What is Active Reticle? What is Intra-Soldier Wi-Fi? What are the features? How was it tested Is it simple to use? Alexander Lewis, Vortex Rep, answers these and other questions in the Podcast that runs 49 minutes. Podcast Highlights:00:00 – NGSWFC Intro
08:44 – A Traditional LPOVO at Its Core
16:22 – Smart Scope Technology
19:43 – The “Active Reticle”, (Rendering) 23.40 – Smart Scope Technologies
29:07 – Size/Weight
33:08 – Laser Rangefinder and Interfaces
42:53 – Battery and Power Next Generation Squad Weapons Program
The Next Generation Squad Weapons program (NGSW), a U.S. military initiative, was launched in 2017. It aims to develop operationally relevant squad level lethality against various threats. SIG Sauer and General Dynamics were selected as the defense companies to supply prototypes of weapons and ammunition for the program. Textron Systems was also chosen. The weapon system provides significant improvements in soldiers’ signature management and range. Similar Posts:Tags: Next Generation Squad Weapon, NGSW-FC, Vortex Laser Scope, Vortex Optics, Vortex Rangefinding Scope, XM157
