FN MTL-30: Ushering in Advanced Precision Grenadier Capabilities for American Forces

Army Awards FN America Contract for Next-Generation Launcher Development

FN America has secured a $2 million Prototype Project Opportunity Notice (PPON) from the United States Army to advance development of its candidate for the Precision Grenadier System. This cutting-edge weapon and ammunition platform represents a significant leap forward in soldier-level firepower, offering enhanced lethality and accuracy far superior to conventional grenade launcher technology.

Engineering Excellence: American-Made Innovation

Designed and manufactured domestically at FN America's South Carolina production facility, the FN Multi-purpose Tactical Launcher 30mm (MTL-30™) represents a new class of infantry weaponry. This shoulder-fired, semi-automatic launcher features medium-velocity capabilities with a flatter trajectory profile, enabling extended engagement distances and delivering more potent munitions than legacy platforms. Through rigorous evaluation protocols, FN America reports the MTL-30 has successfully satisfied the Department of Defense's critical performance benchmarks while meeting program objectives for cost-effectiveness, production scalability, and logistical sustainability via contemporary manufacturing techniques.

Strategic Impact on Modern Combat

Mark Cherpes, President and CEO of FN America, LLC, emphasized the system's significance: "This program is a U.S. Government priority with the shift in modern warfare and engagements, and FN is honored to be selected to develop this new, innovative solution. Once developed and implemented, this weapon system could radically change future battlefield strategies. It will offer new capabilities at the squad level and upgraded tactical options, giving the warfighter a more effective system."

Technical Design and Capabilities

Ammunition and Feeding System

As the flagship platform in this launcher-ammunition ecosystem, the MTL-30 is configured for 30mm medium-velocity grenade munitions. The system utilizes a removable box magazine design available in both 3-round and 5-round configurations.

Dimensions and Ergonomics

The launcher showcases a space-efficient profile, measuring approximately 35 inches in length and 8.5 inches in height, with an unloaded weight of just over 10 pounds. User controls—including bolt catch, magazine release, and safety selector—feature ambidextrous operation. The ergonomic architecture incorporates familiar M4-pattern elements: an M4-compatible telescoping stock with adjustable modular cheek riser and an intuitive pistol grip design. The modular rail infrastructure includes a full-length top rail for mounting optics and vision enhancement devices, complemented by side-mounted M-LOK® attachment points and MIL-STD Picatinny compatibility.

Multi-Mission Versatility

John Bungard, Senior Director of Military Development Programs for FN America, LLC, outlined the platform's tactical flexibility: "The FN MTL-30 shoulder-fired launcher can engage in close-quarter warfare, defeat targets in defilade, and engage unmanned aerial systems (UAS). It could also be networked with FN remote weapon stations to create a multi-layered defense against UAS. Providing solutions that can counter multiple threats is critical for future battlefield engagements. We are excited that the Army is interested in maturing our PGS solution. We are fully committed to this system and its development."

Soldier-Centric Development Approach

Direct input from military personnel shaped the MTL-30's evolution, resulting in a lighter, more agile prototype while preserving intuitive control configurations. The launcher generates minimal perceived recoil, facilitating smooth follow-up shots and expedited target engagement. Engineered with field serviceability in mind, the modular architecture enables user-level maintenance and incorporates substantial parts compatibility with existing components, streamlining logistics and reducing total ownership costs.

Performance Advantages

Jim Williams, Vice President of Military Programs for FN America, LLC, highlighted the technological advantages: "The technologies we have incorporated have allowed FN to create a system that is much lighter, more compact and more maneuverable than previous soldier-operated grenade launchers. This will improve soldier capabilities on the battlefield, offering a robust solution for close combat, engaging targets beyond 500m or to potentially combat other threats such as unmanned aerial systems."

Technical Specifications

FN MTL-30 Specs:

• Caliber: 30mm medium velocity
• Magazine Capacity: 3- or 5-round, detachable box magazine
• Operation: Semi-automatic
• Weight: 11 lbs, launcher only (unloaded, no optic)
• Overall Length: 34 inches
• Sights: Sight-ready; continuous Picatinny rail at 12 o'clock
• Effective Range: 500m

This product is only available for the military.