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The U.S. Army is collaborating with Carpenter Technology and Geissele Automatics to create a new barrel for its next generation of small arms, utilizing the alloy GNB 200. This partnership, formed under CRADAs, aims to improve barrel performance by addressing issues like wear resistance and tensile strength.

The project includes extensive testing with M240L machine guns, set to conclude in spring 2025. Insights from this work will inform future Army weapon designs, and while the CRADA with Carpenter has expired, the agreement with Geissele has been renewed for further development. Additionally, both companies are working on a patented new rifle profile to further enhance weapon durability.