Marines fire an M240B machine gun during an exercise at Fort Drum, N.Y., Nov. 6, 2020.

The M240 came into service with the U.S. military in 1977 and over the years, several variants have been developed. The M240 is an open bolt, gas-operated weapon, and shoots a 7.62 mm x 51 mm NATO round. It often serves as a crew-served weapon. It is commonly being mounted on boats, trucks, and aircraft, but can also be carried in the field and mounted on a bipod or tripod. The M240 is built by FN America, a subsidiary of FN Herstal.

The M240 has served in every major combat conflict since its inception. It has undoubtedly proved its worth for the Unites States and foreign militaries. It is unrivaled in its class and is seen as the U.S. military’s best crew served weapon.