FN Herstal’s update of the FN MINIMI, the FN MINIMI Mk3 is probably the most important new firearm of 2013 given its widespread use by the militaries of North American, South America, Europe, South East Asia and Oceania. The new FN MINIMI Mk3, which will be chambered in both 7.62mm and 5.56mm NATO, features a number of upgraded components over the previous version.

Users of the FN MINIMI (China may also be using a clone)

FN MINIMI MK3 Upgraded Components highlighted in blue.

The old fixed stock has been replaced with a 5-position adjustable stock that has a 4 position adjustable cheek piece (two positions for iron sights and two for optics). The stock also integrates a shoulder rest and hydraulic buffer  The forend/rail/bipod have been upgraded and the folding bipod is now more compact and will not get in the way of accessories mounted on the picatinny rails. The topcover and feed tray has been upgraded for easier one-handed reloading. The cocking handle (not pictured above) is more more ergonomic and easier to operate with either the strong or weak hand. A new heat shield is an optional accessory.

FN will be selling upgrade kits to any of their customers who own the previous version. Upgrades can be performed in-house by the organizations that purchase them. FN can also provide caliber conversion kits to switch the guns between 5.56mm and 7.62mm.

There will be four 5.56mm variants and three 7.62mm variants (down from the total of eight variants previously available). The 5.56mm variants are …

FN MINIMI 5.56 Mk3 Tactical SB

FN MINIMI 5.56 Mk3 Tactical SB

FN MINIMI 5.56 Mk3 Para

FN MINIMI 5.56 Mk3 Standard

DefenseWeb published this video about the new Mk3 …

It is not guaranteed that the  US Armed Forces will upgrade their M249 Light Machine Guns to the new Mk3 model because USSOCOM and the NSWC have been developing their own variants and upgrades for many years. The fruits of their labor are the Mk. 46 Mod 0 and Mk 48 Mod 0/1.