Considerations on the Evolution of War

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It does seem unlikely to happen. But, there was also a time when sniper rifles were the same caliber as infantry rifles and machine guns, yet today's sniper rifles fire bigger and more powerful rounds. There is no compelling need for magazine-fed rifles to use the same cartridge as belt-fed machine guns. Considering those facts, I think it's conceivable that such a LMG round could become reality.

This goes back to Gen III Warfare and it's logistical challenges. However unlikely, we still must stay prepared for this event whether it be Iran, North Korea, China, or Russia.

Okay. I would point out that during the biggest Gen III war in history, American infantry units had shoulder weapons in three different calibers (.30-06, .30 Carbine, and .45 ACP). If they could do it 70 years ago, I'd think they could cope with it now.

LRRPF52 wants a new LMG, too. I'd sure like to know who is expected to design and manufacture this hypothetical weapon?

Whoever wins the military contract.

Well, duh. Of course the company that wins the contract will produce the weapon.

My question is, what company can be convinced to devote resources for design and development of the unique, ultra-lightweight machine gun that LRRPF52 and Michael desire? I've seen no indication that FN, HK, or anybody else is even so much as daydreaming about creating a totally new LMG, in any caliber. That leaves conversions of existing designs, all of which are much heavier than the oft-cited PKM.

The only possibility I can think of is GDATP, which has been more visionary in the field of machine gun development than other companies.