M240

The M240 is a family of 7.62x51mm NATO general-purpose machine guns that has been used by the United States military since the late 1970s. It is a gas-operated, air-cooled, belt-fed weapon capable of selective fire. The M240 is a derivative of the Belgian FN MAG (Mitrailleuse d'Appui Général), meaning "General Purpose Machine Gun."

The M240 has seen extensive use in various configurations, including the M240B, M240G, and M240L. The M240B is the most common variant and is used as an infantry support weapon, often mounted on bipods or tripods. The M240G is a variant used by the U.S. Marine Corps, featuring some modifications for naval and amphibious operations. The M240L is a lighter, more modern version introduced to reduce the burden on infantry.

Its reliability and versatility have made it a mainstay in the U.S. arsenal. The M240 can be employed effectively against infantry, light vehicles, and low-flying aircraft. Its ability to fire from an open bolt configuration contributes to its accuracy and cooling. The weapon is fed by disintegrating links, typically from 100-round or 200-round ammunition belts. Over its service life, the M240 has proven to be a durable and effective weapon system.