The United States Army has announced an expansion of its current contract with Barrett Firearms, increasing the deal by $14.2 million for the procurement of additional MK22 rifle barrel kits. With this latest modification, the contract’s value now exceeds $64 million, strengthening the Army’s investment in modular precision weapon systems.
The MK22, also known as the Barrett Multi-Role Adaptive Design (MRAD) rifle, represents the Army’s latest advance in sniper technology. This system is unique in its capacity to transition between calibers—most notably 7.62mm and .338 Lapua Magnum—by allowing quick swaps of barrels and bolts. The streamlined flexibility means troops can adapt a single rifle for multiple operational demands, eliminating the need to carry several guns.
Specifically, the contract amendment covers new 7.62mm and .338-caliber barrel conversion kits. Barrett will deliver the upgraded barrels to U.S. Army units, enabling them to tailor their MK22 rifles according to mission requirements, challenging environments, or changes in rules of engagement. These enhancements are handled through the Army Contracting Command in New Jersey, with both funding and delivery managed as unit needs arise.
Deliveries under the revised contract are scheduled to continue through March 2026. The Army originally selected Barrett for the MK22 platform back in 2021, aiming to phase out older sniper rifles like the M2010 and M107, which have been mainstays for years. The move underscores a broader modernization strategy, focusing on boosting small-arms performance and supporting snipers—whose critical skills are pivotal in both counterinsurgency and high-intensity conflicts.
Barrett Firearms, headquartered in Tennessee, has long been synonymous with military marksmanship thanks to products like the .50-caliber M82 rifle. The firm’s prestige recently grew when it was chosen, alongside MARS Inc., to supply the Army with a next-gen precision grenade launcher, signaling continued innovation and partnership with U.S. defense forces.
