Right side view of intermediate model MG5. Note the large adjustable folding stock as present on the first large batch of German MG5.
Source: Heckler & Koch -
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The MG5 is a modern era machine gun of German origin. It was developed in the 2010's as a universal machine gun to replace the aging MG3 in German service, both with the infantry and on vehicles. For this reason ambitious requirements were set regarding reliability and long range accuracy.
The design of the MG5 is an upscaled MG4. The MG5 uses a long stroke gas piston and rotating bolt. It fires from the open bolt position and has a quick change barrel. The shoulder stock is foldable, is adjustable in length and has an adjustable cheek riser. Since the MG5 is also intended for the sustained fire role it is a rather heavy and sturdy weapon.
The MG5 fires the 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge. In German service 50 round belts are carried in an assault pouch or 120 round belts are used from an ammunition box. In a vehicle or tripod position multiple belts can be linked. Rate of fire is adjustable depending on the gas setting. Practical effective range is up to 800 meters from the bipod, or up to 1.5 km on a tripod or vehicle mount.
The MG5 has been adopted in quantity with Germany. It is used by the infantry, on tripods, on pintle mounts, in overhead weapon systems and as a coaxial machine gun. Several nations have acquired the MG5, mostly for their special forces units.
Regular full size model for infantry use. Features a full length barrel and fully adjustable folding stock. Used from the bipod or a tripod mount.
Variant intended for use as a coaxial machine gun or remote weapon system. Fitted with a stubby pistol grip and ability for remote trigger operation. Lacks a stock and bipod, but these can be retrofitted for egress.
Compact and more portable configuration of the MG5. Uses a shorter fluted barrel and grip pod. This configuration is intended for use by a single operation, such as in the special forces role.
The MG5 is an upscaled development of the MG4 machine gun.
The MG5 was developed as a universal machine gun to replace the MG3 in the infantry role, on the tripod and as a vehicle mounted weapon.
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