Lithgow F89

History

The Australian F89 light support machine gun is a derivative of the successful Belgian FN Minimi system, which has been in service in the US, Italy, Belgium and Australia. This particular version of the FN Minimi looks more like an American production version, better known as the M249 SAW (Squad Automatic Weapon) than the original FN base model.

This particular F89 also differs from the FN model by employing Australian production techniques.

The F89 is classified as a light machine gun that fires the Australian SS109 round. The weapon system is designed to provide portable continuous and suppressive fire for mobile fire brigade. Equipped with a bipod for fixed fire support, the system can be operated with a 30-round magazine or with a choice of 100 or 200 disintegration chain straps.

No modification is required when using ammo feeders. The system reportedly has a muzzle velocity of 3,000 feet per second and a cyclic rate of fire of 725 rounds per minute. In continuous fire roles, the system is capable of firing 850 rounds per minute.

Specification

Roles

Dimensions

Performance

Changes