US Army to Begin Fielding Improved M8 Rifle in December

The US Army will begin fielding the improved M8 Next Generation Squad Weapon rifle in December, with some units at Fort Bragg, N.C., set to receive the new carbine. The M8 is lighter and more rigid than its predecessor, the M7, and is expected to replace it in the field.

Why it matters. Soldiers will benefit from a lighter and more reliable rifle, improving their combat effectiveness.