Precision Sniper Rifle

The Precision Sniper Rifle (PSR) program is a key component of the Army's modernization efforts, as outlined in the Department of Defense's FY 2026 budget request under Line Item 8190G01506. The primary goal of this program is to enhance the lethality and survivability of Army Sniper Teams by fielding a new, advanced sniper weapon system capable of outperforming existing platforms in contested and complex operational environments. This initiative directly supports the Army Modernization priority to Build a More Lethal Force and aligns with the National Defense Strategy's emphasis on maintaining overmatch against peer competitors.

The PSR program's main objective is the procurement of the MK22 Precision Sniper Rifle, a multi-caliber, bolt-action system based on the Multi-role Adaptive Design (MRAD) commercial variant. This rifle is designed to serve as the Army's primary anti-personnel Sniper Weapon System (SWS), replacing both the M2010 Enhanced Sniper Rifle (ESR) and the M107 .50 caliber anti-materiel rifle. The PSR offers a significant increase in effective range, extending engagement distances by 300 meters over the M2010 ESR, for a total effective range of up to 1,500 meters. This increased range enhances sniper survivability and effectiveness by allowing greater stand-off distances and improved accuracy.

A key feature of the PSR is its modular, multi-caliber capability, which allows snipers to adapt the weapon to different operational requirements. The system is equipped with a sound suppressor and a direct view optic with integrated fire control, enabling effective engagement of targets in various lighting conditions. When paired with clip-on image intensifiers or thermal sensors, the PSR allows snipers to remain virtually undetected while engaging enemy personnel, snipers, and crew-served weapons. This further enhances operational flexibility and survivability.

The procurement strategy for the PSR program is based on a five-year Firm Fixed Price (FFP) Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract awarded to Barrett Firearms MFG, Inc. on March 31, 2021. The Army Acquisition Objective (AAO) for the program is 2,800 systems, with procurement quantities and funding distributed across multiple fiscal years. The budget supports the procurement of additional PSR systems, maintaining a consistent level of effort from FY 2022 through FY 2026 to support fielding and engineering support activities.

The PSR program is classified as a Non-Developmental Item (NDI) acquisition, leveraging commercially available technology to expedite fielding and reduce development costs. This approach enables the Army to rapidly equip its sniper teams with advanced capabilities while minimizing risk and ensuring interoperability with other services.

The PSR's enhanced accuracy, lighter weight, and modular design provide a substantial improvement over legacy systems, supporting both active and reserve components in a variety of mission sets, including homeland defense, domestic emergency response, and military support to civil authorities.

In accordance with Section 1815 of the FY 2008 National Defense Authorization Act, the PSR is intended for use by both active and reserve components of the Armed Forces. This ensures that the capability is available for a broad range of missions, including those that support civil authorities and respond to domestic emergencies. The program's emphasis on joint lethality and overmatch in complex terrain reflects the Army's commitment to maintaining technological and operational superiority in future conflicts.