Here we see Indian troops sporting the Israel Weapon Industries Negev light machine gun.
Today, we shine our spotlight on two Indian Troops carrying the Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) Negev Light Machine Gun (LMG). In the world of machine guns, light is a relative word. The Negev NG-5 weighs in at 16.9 lbs, about one pound lighter than the US M249 Squad Automatic Weapon.
An IDF soldier with an IWI Negev NG-7 is shown here during the Israel-Hamas war. Image Credit: Wikimedia
Meet the IWI Negev
The IWI Negev, also known as Negev NG-5, is a light machine gun manufactured by Israel Weapon Industries, previously known as Israel Military Industries Ltd. Developed in 5.56×45mm NATO caliber, the weapon is utilized by the Israeli Defense Forces and various other military units worldwide. In 2012, the Negev NG-7 was introduced, chambering the larger 7.62×51mm NATO round, enhancing its capabilities.
Development and Adoption
Originating in 1985 as a project to replace the Galil ARM, the Negev’s development was aimed at producing a reliable and versatile light machine gun. Officially adopted by the Israeli Defense Forces in 1997, the Negev has undergone rigorous testing and improvements over the years.
Operational Design
The Negev operates through a gas-operated, air-cooled mechanism with an open bolt and select-fire options, featuring a rotating bolt and a three-position gas regulator. Its design emphasizes reliability, particularly in challenging environments. The machine gun is equipped with a quick-change barrel, sporting a chrome lining and a slotted flash suppressor. Early models planned for a barrel suitable for lighter ammunition and a multifunctional muzzle device.
Aiming and Handling
For aiming, the Negev offers adjustable iron sights with a range of 300 to 1,000 meters and tritium inserts for night operations. The sight rail is affixed to the gun’s frame, maintaining accuracy over extended use. Some models of the Negev come with different stock configurations, including folding and adjustable types, enhancing its adaptability.
Bipod and Barrel Features
A key feature of the Negev is its bipod, which folds neatly under the handguard when not in use. Some variants also include a 45-degree forward grip for better control during assault situations. The barrel can be fitted with additional hardware, such as lasers or sights, and newer models offer Picatinny rails for even more customization.
Today, we shine our spotlight on two Indian Troops carrying the Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) Negev Light Machine Gun (LMG). In the world of machine guns, light is a relative word. The Negev NG-5 weighs in at 16.9 lbs, about one pound lighter than the US M249 Squad Automatic Weapon.
An IDF soldier with an IWI Negev NG-7 is shown here during the Israel-Hamas war. Image Credit: Wikimedia
Meet the IWI Negev
The IWI Negev, also known as Negev NG-5, is a light machine gun manufactured by Israel Weapon Industries, previously known as Israel Military Industries Ltd. Developed in 5.56×45mm NATO caliber, the weapon is utilized by the Israeli Defense Forces and various other military units worldwide. In 2012, the Negev NG-7 was introduced, chambering the larger 7.62×51mm NATO round, enhancing its capabilities.
Development and Adoption
Originating in 1985 as a project to replace the Galil ARM, the Negev’s development was aimed at producing a reliable and versatile light machine gun. Officially adopted by the Israeli Defense Forces in 1997, the Negev has undergone rigorous testing and improvements over the years.
Operational Design
The Negev operates through a gas-operated, air-cooled mechanism with an open bolt and select-fire options, featuring a rotating bolt and a three-position gas regulator. Its design emphasizes reliability, particularly in challenging environments. The machine gun is equipped with a quick-change barrel, sporting a chrome lining and a slotted flash suppressor. Early models planned for a barrel suitable for lighter ammunition and a multifunctional muzzle device.
Aiming and Handling
For aiming, the Negev offers adjustable iron sights with a range of 300 to 1,000 meters and tritium inserts for night operations. The sight rail is affixed to the gun’s frame, maintaining accuracy over extended use. Some models of the Negev come with different stock configurations, including folding and adjustable types, enhancing its adaptability.
Bipod and Barrel Features
A key feature of the Negev is its bipod, which folds neatly under the handguard when not in use. Some variants also include a 45-degree forward grip for better control during assault situations. The barrel can be fitted with additional hardware, such as lasers or sights, and newer models offer Picatinny rails for even more customization.
Ammunition and Feeding
The standard Negev uses 5.56×45mm NATO ammunition, feeding from an M27 disintegrating link belt or alternatively from various magazines with the help of adapters. The 7.62×51mm NATO variants, like the Negev NG-7, typically use 100- or 125-round drum magazines. A unique feed system inspired by earlier models and designs ensures reliable ammunition delivery.
Variants and Evolution
Several variants of the Negev exist, each offering different features like barrel lengths, stock types, and accessory compatibility. These range from the original Negev and compact SF models to the updated NG-5 and NG-7 series, each tailored to specific operational needs. The Negev 7 ULMG represents a lighter alternative introduced in 2023, adaptable to 6.5mm Creedmoor with a barrel change.
Conclusion
The Negev, in its various forms, continues to serve as a versatile and reliable light machine gun, adaptable to a wide range of military applications and continuously evolving based on operational feedback and technological advancements.
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