MK-19 Grenade Machine Gun MODS

The MK-19 Grenade Machine Gun MODS program is a line item within the Army's Procurement of Weapons and Tracked Combat Vehicles (W&TCV) budget, specifically under Budget Activity 02: Weapons and Other Combat Vehicles, and Budget Sub Activity 20: Modification of Weapons and Other Combat Vehicles. This program is designed to support Army modernization priorities, particularly the goal of building a more lethal force as outlined in the National Defense Strategy (NDS). The MK19 Mod 3 is a self-powered, air-cooled, 40mm automatic grenade machine gun capable of firing 325-375 rounds per minute. It can engage point targets up to 1,500 meters and provide suppressive fire at ranges up to 2,200 meters.

The primary objective of the MK-19 Grenade Machine Gun MODS program is to enhance the operational capabilities, reliability, readiness, maintainability, and safety of the MK19 system. This is achieved through a series of system enhancements and modifications, including the integration of improved mechanical sights via Modification Work Orders. The improved sight is intended to decrease the logistical burden by reducing the number of parts required for maintenance and simultaneously increase soldier lethality through updated ballistic solutions.

A significant goal within this line item is the procurement and integration of the Mounted Machine Gun Optic (MMO). The MMO is designed to provide increased accuracy for the MK19 by equipping it with a combined reflex and magnified optic. This capability is particularly important for mounted Combat Support and Combat Service Support (CS/CSS) troops, who currently lack any optical sighting system. The MMO will improve target identification, acquisition, and engagement times at extended ranges, while retaining the ability to rapidly transition to short-range fire.

Another key objective is the deployment of MK93 Improvement Kits, which are intended to enhance hit performance and improve the soldier's interface with optical sighting systems during on-the-move engagements. These kits work by dampening mount movement, thereby increasing accuracy and effectiveness during dynamic operations. Additionally, the program supports the integration of the XM101 Programmer Unit (PU), which enables fuze setting for the 40mm High Velocity, High Explosive Dual Purpose-Air Burst (HEDP-AB) capability. This further expands the MK19's operational versatility.

The program also addresses the need for homeland defense and domestic emergency response capabilities. In accordance with Section 1815 of the FY 2008 National Defense Authorization Act, the MK19 MODS line item is necessary for use by both active and reserve components of the Armed Forces in support of homeland defense missions, domestic emergencies, and military support to civil authorities. This ensures that the system remains relevant for both overseas contingency operations and domestic requirements.

Recent funding has supported the procurement of replacement weapons transferred to Ukraine as part of the international effort to counter Russian aggression. This action demonstrates the program's flexibility in responding to emergent global security needs. Continued investment in system upgrades and modifications is planned, with funding allocated for both base and overseas contingency operations in upcoming fiscal years.