FN P90 | FN P90 GUN | FN P90 FOR SALE
The FN P90 submachine gun emerged from the development efforts of the Belgian Fabrique Nationale (FN) of Herstal in the late 1980s. It was designed to cater to the needs of non-frontline troops, such as vehicle drivers, tank crews, and artillery personnel, offering a new level of personal defense. Featuring a revolutionary ammunition and boasting a design that bridged the gap between submachine guns (SMGs) and assault rifles, the FN P90 was introduced in the early 1990s. Its debut marked a significant advancement in weaponry, earning it recognition as a new generation weapon. Belgian special forces adopted the FN P90 in 1991, coinciding with its deployment during the Persian Gulf War. Presently, it remains in active service with Belgium and is utilized by nearly 50 export operators worldwide, albeit with limited production quantities.
Design and Features
The FN P90 SMG represents a departure from conventional designs, incorporating several unique features. Utilizing blowback operation and selective fire capabilities, it adopts a bullpup layout, firing from a closed bolt position. Its standout feature lies in its chambering for a newly-developed 5.7x28mm low-impulse, high-velocity ammunition, renowned for its penetration capabilities against body armor at distances exceeding 100 meters. Resembling a scaled-down NATO 5.56x45mm round, this ammunition enables the FN P90 to penetrate standard US Army helmets at a range of 150 meters.
Potential and Adoption
Despite its innovative design and capabilities, the FN P90 faced divergent paths in its adoption. In the early 2000s, NATO conducted tests comparing the Belgian 5.7x28mm round against the German 4.6x30mm round utilized by the HK MP7 submachine gun. While findings favored the Belgian round for its superiority, certain NATO members, notably Germany, opted against adopting it as the standard NATO round for submachine guns. This led to independent adoption of firearms chambered for either 5.7x28mm or 4.6x30mm ammunition by select NATO countries.
Operational Usage
Interestingly, the FN P90 often finds itself employed in roles contrary to its original purpose. Many operators utilize it for offensive tasks, leveraging its compact size, minimal weight, and ease of use. Constructed primarily from impact-resistant polymer, the submachine gun boasts ambidextrous controls, including charging handles and a safety switch. Its unconventional magazine, holding 50 rounds in two rows, enhances compactness, with cartridges rotated 90 degrees before entering the feed lips. Equipped with integral non-magnifying red dot sights and backup iron sights, the FN P90 offers versatility in various tactical scenarios.
Ammunition and Performance
Central to the FN P90’s design is its utilization of the 5.7x28mm cartridge, tailored to meet specific operational needs. Developed by FN Herstal in response to NATO requirements, this high-velocity cartridge prioritizes armor-piercing capabilities while minimizing collateral damage risks associated with conventional pistol rounds. Its flat trajectory and reduced recoil enhance controllability, with the ability to penetrate Kevlar protective vests at ranges exceeding 200 meters.
Sights and Accessories
The FN P90 is complemented by a range of sights and accessories, including tactical lights, laser aiming devices, and sound suppressors. Equipped with non-magnifying optical sights and provisions for night vision equipment, it offers enhanced versatility in different operational environments. Accessories such as the Gemtech SP90 sound suppressor further enhance its capabilities, reducing sound signature and facilitating stealthy operations.
Global Usage and Impact
While the FN P90 did not achieve widespread adoption as a military firearm for large-scale rear echelon use, it found favor among special forces and law enforcement units worldwide. Notably, over 200 law enforcement agencies in the United States have adopted the FN P90, citing its effectiveness in various operational scenarios. Instances of its successful deployment, such as during the Peruvian hostage crisis resolution in 1997, underscore its relevance in modern warfare despite facing competition from newer firearm models.
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