U.S. Special Operations Forces Move Beyond the Barrett .50 Sniper Rifle
- office736978
- Apr 28
- 2 min read
The Barrett sniper rifles, renowned for their unmatched power and precision, have long been iconic in the world of weaponry, particularly in the .50 BMG (12.7×99 mm) caliber. However, the U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) is reportedly preparing to transition away from both the Barrett .50 sniper rifles and the associated .50 caliber ammunition, as part of a broader modernization effort.
This shift falls under the Advanced Long-Range Sniper Rifle program — an initiative aimed at introducing a new generation of sniper rifles capable of delivering precision strikes at distances beyond 2.5 kilometers. Early reports suggest that SOCOM is leaning toward the adoption of the M30-Tactical System (M30-TS) chambered in the .375 EnABELR caliber, both developed by the experts at Applied Ballistics.
The Evolution of Sniper Ammunition
At the heart of this evolution is the cartridge itself. Developed beginning in 2018, the .375 EnABELR offers an optimal balance of speed and bullet weight, achieving velocities of 911.35 m/s (2990 ft/sec) with a 379-grain Berger bullet fired from a 30-inch barrel. The smaller, lighter cartridge is especially advantageous for special operations units where agility and reduced load are critical.
The move away from the .50 BMG (.50 Browning Machine Gun) cartridge marks the end of an era. First commissioned in 1921 and developed during the late 1910s, the .50 BMG was initially designed for the M2 Browning machine gun. Over the decades, it evolved into a preferred caliber for sniper rifles, with its battlefield legacy stretching from the Korean War and Vietnam to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
The Barrett M82 (later M107) rifle, specifically engineered for the .50 BMG, became a staple in U.S. military arsenals. Officially adopted in 2002, the Barrett M107 distinguished itself through its long-range accuracy, devastating power, and semi-automatic action, allowing rapid follow-up shots. Despite weighing approximately 28 pounds unloaded and posing significant logistical challenges, the M107 remains one of the most respected long-range sniper platforms globally.
Why the Shift?
Despite its proven performance, the size and weight of the M107 and its ammunition have prompted SOCOM to seek lighter, more versatile alternatives. Modern operational requirements demand greater mobility without sacrificing firepower or range — a balance newer cartridges like the .375 EnABELR aim to achieve.
Still, the .50 BMG remains a critical part of global military arsenals. Its massive energy and impact at extreme ranges continue to make it indispensable for anti-materiel missions, disabling vehicles, and penetrating fortified positions.
Midzhur MMC: Supporting the Legacy of the .50 BMG
As SOCOM looks ahead, many militaries and defense contractors worldwide continue to rely heavily on the .50 BMG. Midzhur Management Construction MMC proudly supports this legacy by manufacturing high-quality 12.7×99 mm (.50 BMG) ammunition. Our commitment to precision, reliability, and innovation ensures that the legendary .50 BMG caliber remains a powerful asset for modern forces, fulfilling both current operational demands and future strategic needs.
📩 For partnership inquiries or to learn more about Midzhur MMC's ammunition solutions, contact us:
📞 +359884601984
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