Looks like the Marines are looking for a replacement for the SAW. I think the platform is familar to the shooting style of current M4's and M16's. The familarity should help new shooters and those having to pick the weapon up and employ it at a moments notice with little training. The only thing that is going to be a issue is how the gun is going to be fed it's hungry appetite of 5.56. They got a couple of options out there like reg. mags, 90 round, and 100 round C mags. Either way this is a aswesome gun and it will do it's part. Personally I like the 7.62 SAW that FN has out that they give to SOCOM and I wonder if it has even been giving any attention?
The M27 isn't a replacement for the SAW, it's intended to compliment the SAW with a lighter weapon that enhances the auto rifleman's maneuverability and displacement speed. The Mark 48 can't fill this role because it's heavier than the currently issued M249. Additionally, 7.62 NATO is heavier than 5.56 NATO, meaning the operator can't carry as much ammo. Suggesting the heavier Mark 48 to fill the lighter IAR's role is like suggesting the heavier Stryker to fill the lighter Humvee's role or the larger C-17 to fill the smaller C-130's role. No disrespect, Marcus, but I figured a former Marine (I thought there was no such thing as a former Marine? ;) ) would realize this.
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