Army Advocates for Newer, Lighter Service Rifle

The Army plans to begin soldier testing of a compact carbine variant as early as October. The weapon, called the XM8, is a shortened companion to the service’s recently fielded rifle. A photo shows a soldier firing an M7 at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii on Jan. 30, 2026.

Testing and public reaction

An Army spokesperson told Filmogaz.com that field tests could start in October. The Program Executive Office did not immediately answer follow-up questions.

Photos of the experimental carbine spread online after a link circulated on an Army Reddit forum. Filmogaz.com published side-by-side images comparing the compact rifle to the M7.

Supply chain indicator

Details about the XM8 emerged after the Army issued a new national stock number last month. Analysts view that move as an early sign that the item is entering the service supply chain.

Design and purpose

The XM8 is being developed as a carbine. Carbines are typically shorter and lighter than full-length rifles.

According to a Sig Sauer spokesperson, the XM8 is about five inches shorter and roughly one pound lighter than the M7. It also features a fixed buttstock.

The design aims to help soldiers maneuver in confined spaces while using the Army’s new 6.8mm ammunition.

Program background

In early 2022, the Army awarded a 10-year Next Generation Squad Weapon contract to Sig Sauer. That program sought to move away from legacy 5.56mm and 7.62mm rounds. It selected 6.8mm to increase accuracy and lethality against emerging threats, the contract release said.

The M7, formerly designated XM5, began fielding in 2023. The service formally named it the standard-issue rifle in May 2025.

Companion, not replacement

The Army intends the XM8 to serve alongside the M7. It is not being positioned as a direct replacement.

Previous testing under the program included the M250 automatic rifle, intended to succeed the M249.

Procurement and outlook

As of 2024, the Army planned to buy more than 100,000 M7 rifles and about 13,000 M250 automatic rifles by early 2030. It remains unclear when, or if, the XM8 will move beyond testing into formal adoption.

Some Army Advocates for Newer, Lighter Service Rifle view the XM8 as a natural extension of the effort to offer more compact options. The Marine Corps, by contrast, plans to keep fielding its 5.56mm M27.