FN America has received a $2 million award from the U.S. Army to advance its Precision Grenadier System prototype, focusing on development of the MTL-30 30 mm semi-automatic grenade launcher. The contract targets prototype maturation — improving durability, ease of production, and integration with Army platforms — rather than immediate fielding.
The MTL-30 fires modular 30 mm ammunition and is intended to defeat defilade positions, counter small drones, and extend range and accuracy beyond current 40 mm launchers. The design includes a removable 3- or 5-round magazine, ambidextrous controls, an M4-style telescoping stock, and a modular accessory rail for sensors and optics.
According to FN, the MTL-30 already satisfies key performance metrics and is being tuned to Army requirements. The PGS program is part of an ongoing effort to increase infantry firepower at the squad level. Earlier efforts to field airburst-capable weapons, such as the XM25, failed after a decade of testing due to reliability problems, a live-fire incident, and escalating costs, leading to cancellation in 2018.
The Army has since shifted to competitive prototype approaches; for example, the 2025 xTechSoldier Lethality contest showcased multiple candidate designs and rewarded teams (including Barrett/MARS) for practical 30 mm concepts — with an emphasis on production readiness, maintenance, and soldier usability as well as ballistic effectiveness.
