The Royal Marines are stepping up their firepower. In a major boost to the UK Commando Force, more than 1,500 state-of-the-art Sig Sauer MCX rifles have been procured, specifically designed for high-stakes, specialist operations, including counter-terrorism missions.
This multi-million-pound investment, facilitated by Edgar Brothers, marks yet another leap forward in the evolution of the elite force. The MCX replaces the ageing Colt Canada rifles as part of a broader £6 million initiative to modernise Commando equipment, ensuring they remain at the cutting edge of operational capability.
A Perfect Fit for the Commandos’ Unique Mission
Not just any rifle makes the cut for the UK’s elite amphibious forces. The MCX brings a level of adaptability and precision perfectly suited to the Commandos’ diverse, high-risk roles. Whether operating in dense urban environments, remote jungles, or extreme cold-weather conditions, this rifle is built to perform.
The MCX will work alongside the Knights Armament Stoner 1 (KS-1), the Commandos’ new general-use rifle, first announced in September 2023. Together, these weapons provide an unparalleled advantage in modern warfare, strengthening the Royal Marines’ role as a premier raiding force across the globe.
A Transformational Step for the UK Commando Force
“This is an excellent period of investment in the force and provides great confidence through exceptional task-specific modern weaponry,” said Lieutenant Colonel Olly Osborne of the Commando Force Programme team. “These rifles reinforce the commitment of Defence to our transformation, and the value the Commando Force provides to our national and international security.”
Before deployment, the MCX underwent rigorous testing, including intense force-on-force exercises and live-fire drills. The goal? To ensure every operator is confident in the weapon’s performance under the toughest conditions imaginable.
The new rifle will be a key asset for Commando units operating with the Littoral Response Groups—highly versatile, rapid-reaction forces combining amphibious ships, aircraft, vehicles, and elite troops to respond to crises and conduct Special Operations worldwide.
A Legacy of Innovation: Project Hay
The procurement of the MCX falls under the ambit of Project Hay—a programme named in honour of the legendary Royal Marine fighter pilot, Ronnie Hay. As the only Royal Marines fighter ace in history, Hay was a symbol of daring and innovation, playing pivotal roles in Dunkirk, the Battle of Britain, and multiple campaigns across Europe and the Far East. His fearless legacy continues to shape the future of the UK’s Commando Force.
Project Hay follows in the footsteps of Project Hunter, which led the selection of the KS-1 rifle. In both cases, Royal Marines themselves played a crucial role in field-testing and refining their new weapons, ensuring they meet the unique demands of modern operations.
The Future of Commando Firepower
With the introduction of the MCX, the Royal Marines are better equipped than ever to take on the threats of today and tomorrow. This latest upgrade is more than just a new rifle—it’s a statement of intent. The UK’s elite amphibious force is evolving, and with every investment like this, it cements its place at the forefront of global Special Operations.
