The video opens by introducing FN’s new Individual Weapon System, described as a hybrid between an FN SCAR and an AK-47 and a potential shadow competitor to the SIG Spear and Spear LT from the NGSW program. The host explains that this IWS was developed for the Irregular Warfare Technical Support Directorate, formerly the Combating Terrorism Technical Support Office. That directorate’s mission is to rapidly field capabilities for irregular warfare against both state and non-state adversaries, emphasizing covert, specialized operations rather than conventional frontline units. The IWS is framed as a purpose-built solution for those irregular missions. Central to the system is the new 264 Lightweight Intermediate Caliber Cartridge, a 6.5x43mm round. It is compared to 6.5 Creedmoor’s 6.5x48mm dimensions and to the relationship between .300 Blackout (7.62x35mm) and 7.62x39mm. The cartridge uses a two-piece stainless steel head and body to cut weight versus brass, behaves more like a steel AK cartridge, and sacrifices much of its reloadability. Four distinct loads are planned to support different roles.
The discussion turns to the four specific 6.5x43 LICC loads: a 130-grain reduced ricochet limited penetration round, 109-grain and 120-grain copper open tip match options, and a 125-grain soft nose. These are tailored to different mission profiles and are paired with three primary rifle configurations: an 11.5-inch CQB variant, a 14.5-inch carbine, and an 18.5-inch designated marksman or WKY configuration. Depending on setup, the rifles weigh roughly 7 to 8 pounds. Mechanically, the IWS departs from the FN SCAR’s short-stroke gas piston and instead adopts a long-stroke piston system reminiscent of the AK-47, prioritizing reliability and relatively clean operation under harsh conditions. Ammunition manufacturers are not confirmed, though companies like Hornady or Federal are mentioned as likely candidates, and there is interest in future comparisons between 6.5x43 and 6.5 Creedmoor. FN is collaborating with HuxWrx on a silencer designed to keep sound levels under the IWTSD’s 140 dB requirement, targeting around 139.9 dB. The rifle appears to use Magpul magazines and features a redesigned lower receiver with a new magwell, ambidextrous controls, and unique takedown elements.
Attention shifts to the FN IWS’s control layout. The rifle is fully ambidextrous, including a distinctive bolt release on the right side positioned near the bottom front of the trigger guard, differing from the placement seen on the SIG Spear and Spear LT. This location is highlighted as a unique ergonomic choice intended to speed manipulations. The charging system uses ambidextrous, non-reciprocating handles on both sides of the receiver. These handles sit farther back and lower than the traditional forward-mounted SCAR charging handle, avoiding the SCAR’s earlier issues with reciprocating handles that could interfere with the shooter’s grip. The stock is a QD-install folding design that can fold to either the left or right, allowing users to tailor the rifle to their gear and sling setup. The host notes the potential to swap this folder for non-folding precision-oriented stocks, referencing FN’s SCAR 20 and Ballista designs as examples of how FN might extend the platform into more specialized precision roles.
The video then explores the IWS’s upper receiver architecture. It uses a monolithic upper with a full-length 12 o’clock Picatinny rail and M-LOK slots for accessories, designed to maintain rigidity and consistent optics mounting. A key feature is the quick-change configuration system: a single lever allows field swapping between different upper or barrel configurations, such as moving from a shorter carbine setup to a longer DMR-style configuration. The host notes that this lever-based system enables rapid reconfiguration but raises concerns about accidental activation in the field if not well protected. The long-stroke piston system is again emphasized, now in conjunction with a flow-through style suppressor that appears to be from HuxWrx, intended to manage back pressure and sound signature. Alongside the IWS, FN is developing a Lightweight Individual Carbine Assault Machine Gun variant, referred to as an AMG, which would extend the same LICC and architecture into a higher-volume fire role. FN’s secrecy around these irregular-warfare-focused projects is highlighted, with speculation that more details will emerge only after official adoption or declassification.
The conversation moves to how the FN IWS and its .264 LICC concept might challenge the SIG Spear and its .277 chambering from the NGSW program. The host frames the IWS as a potential competitor that exists somewhat in the shadows, optimized for irregular warfare rather than large-scale conventional adoption. A 7.62 NATO SIG Spear is shown as a reference point, outfitted with a Leupold Mark 5HD optic, BCM accessories, a Magpul bipod, and an A3 Tactical skeletonized side-folding stock in place of the standard Magpul folder. This setup illustrates how the Spear platform is being customized by users and sets a visual benchmark for comparing ergonomics and modularity. The host mentions interest in a future video directly comparing .277, 6.5 Creedmoor, and the 6.5x43 LICC, potentially using different weapon systems for each caliber to evaluate performance, recoil, and practical advantages across mission sets.
In the closing section, viewers are invited to share their thoughts on the FN IWS and the 6.5x43 LICC concept, particularly on Rumble where the host is actively building discussion. Plans for a future comparison video between .277, 6.5 Creedmoor, and .264 LICC are reiterated, with encouragement for audience input on what they want to see tested. Regular live streams are promoted, typically held on Monday evenings and often on Wednesdays, covering multiple platforms including YouTube, Twitch, Twitter/X, Rumble, and Facebook. The host notes ongoing issues with Facebook frequently restricting and then unbanning the channel. There is a brief commentary on Twitter’s rebranding to X, with a stated preference for still calling it Twitter. The video ends by urging viewers to follow on YouTube, Rumble, and Twitch, participate in the comment sections, and stay engaged as more information about FN’s irregular warfare platforms becomes available.
Loading...