Belgian defence manufacturer FN Herstal has introduced the FN MAG TACTICAL with Long Rail, an upgraded version of its battle-proven FN MAG general-purpose machine gun tailored for the growing use of day, night, and thermal optics on modern battlefields.
The enhancement builds on the legacy of the 7.62×51 mm NATO FN MAG, a weapon currently in service with armed forces across 90 countries. Rather than redesigning the machine gun, FN focused on improving ergonomics and expanding its ability to integrate advanced sighting systems.
A key feature of the upgrade is an 11-inch monolithic top rail that provides roughly 14 inches of mounting space, allowing operators to install multiple in-line optics while retaining access to the weapon’s original iron sights. The setup enables seamless integration of daytime and nighttime targeting systems on a single platform.
FN says the redesign aligns the MAG more closely with the handling characteristics of modern infantry weapons while preserving the reliability and combat effectiveness that have made it one of the world’s most trusted machine guns.
To meet evolving battlefield requirements, the FN MAG TACTICAL with Long Rail also introduces an ambidextrous feed-cover latch, allowing access from either side of the weapon. An automatic retention system keeps the feed cover open during loading, unloading, and malfunction-clearing procedures, while an integrated stop protects mounted optics and supports sighting systems weighing up to 2.5 kilograms.
The upgraded machine gun further features an adjustable tactical buttstock with customizable length-of-pull and cheek-rest settings, improving shooter comfort and optic alignment. FN confirmed that the enhancements are compatible not only with the standard MAG but also with the US Army’s M240 and the British Army’s L7A2 variants.
