The Belgian-headquartered FN Browning Group is about to demonstrate its commitment to the UK market through a range of solutions designed for dismounted troops, vehicle-mounted systems, and integrated logistics support. Central to this approach is the company's UK manufacturing facility in Slade Green, Kent, which marks its 50th anniversary of operations this year.

FN UK operates as the United Kingdom's only remaining manufacturer of military assault rifles and machine guns, a distinction that carries significant strategic weight. The facility, originally established as Manroy Engineering in 1975, produces the FN M2 heavy machine gun and the 7.62mm general purpose machine gun (GPMG) known across Europe as the MAG 58. The 40,000-square-foot facility encompasses comprehensive manufacturing capabilities including CNC machines, lathes, grinding, chroming, painting, and phosphating operations.

The Kent facility also produces components for the EVOLYS ultralight machine gun, which FN is positioning as a potential replacement for existing British military systems. Manufacturing operations extend beyond complete weapons to include slide production for the FN 509 pistol destined for the US market, demonstrating the facility's integration within the broader FN Browning Group supply chain.

Recent contract wins underscore the facility's strategic importance. In January 2024, FN UK secured a £40 million, five-year contract for the mid-life improvement of the UK's L111 heavy machine guns, extending their operational life by 60,000 rounds. The company also maintains partnerships with US defence technology firms, including True Velocity, for the production of .338 Norma lightweight medium machine gun components.

At DSEI 2025, FN is going to highligh the FN EVOLYS ultralight machine gun as a cornerstone offering for dismounted troops. Available in 5.56x45mm and 7.62x51mm NATO calibres, the system weighs approximately 5.5kg in the smaller calibre variant, representing a significant weight reduction compared to existing systems. The weapon combines belt-fed machine gun capabilities with assault rifle ergonomics, addressing British military requirements for lighter infantry weapons.

The company also featured the Winchester SX4 semi-automatic shotgun for counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) operations, reflecting the growing threat posed by small drones to infantry units. This cross-division collaboration between FN's Defence & Security and Hunting & Sport Shooting divisions illustrates the group's ability to adapt civilian technologies for military applications.

Vehicle-mounted systems featured prominently in FN's display, centred on the FN Multi Weapon Mount (MWM). This modular system accommodates multiple calibres and mission configurations, integrating with both land and naval platforms. The system includes the FN SMARTCORE shot counter and FN ELITY LITE laser rangefinder, providing digital lifecycle tracking and enhanced accuracy.

The company maintains a significant European focus, with approximately 90% of sales occurring within Europe, representing a strategic shift from previous Middle Eastern market concentration. The British market holds particular significance within this European strategy. FN has supplied British forces continuously since World War II, from the SLR rifle and GPMG to more recent systems including the FN MINIMI light machine gun. This established relationship provides a foundation for future procurement opportunities, particularly as the Ministry of Defence evaluates replacements for aging weapon systems.

Current British military procurement activity suggests potential opportunities for FN systems. Project TROUBLER, a £4 million tender for a new 5.56mm lightweight machine gun, specifies weight requirements that the EVOLYS system could potentially meet. The tender's emphasis on reduced weight aligns with FN's product development strategy and established manufacturing capabilities.

The company's integrated logistics support (ILS) approach provides additional competitive advantages in the British market. FN offers comprehensive maintenance, repair, and overhaul services through its Smart Armoury system, combining digital weapon management with preventive maintenance capabilities. These services can be delivered at customer sites or FN facilities, providing flexibility for British military requirements.

However, FN faces increasing competition in European markets from established rivals including Italy's Beretta and Germany's Heckler & Koch. The company's response emphasizes product reliability and comprehensive lifecycle support, leveraging its position as original equipment manufacturer for many NATO-standard weapons systems.

As European defence spending increases, FN UK's position as the sole British military small arms manufacturer provides strategic advantages. The facility's planned relocation within four years will enable equipment modernization and automation improvements, potentially strengthening its competitive position for future British military contracts.

FN's DSEI 2025 presence demonstrated a company leveraging established relationships and manufacturing capabilities to address evolving British military requirements, while positioning itself for future growth in an increasingly significant European defence market.

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