Tel Aviv: The Infantry units of the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) have begun using the SIG Sauer MG 338, a modern medium machine gun chambered for the .338 Norma Magnum cartridge. The weapon is used now, both in frontline units and special operations forces, including its use in the Gaza conflict. The weapon is locally designated “Orim” within the IDF.
The weapon has an effective range of approximately 1,700 metres—about double that of standard 7.62×51mm NATO machine guns. At 1,000 metres, it can still penetrate Level III armour. The weapon weighs about 10kg lighter than comparable earlier machine guns like the M240.
The MG 338 is fully ambidextrous, allowing feeding and charging from either side. It features an AR-style handgrip, folding buttstock, and uses a proprietary recoil reduction system to limit felt recoil to only slightly above that of an M4 carbine.
The sights are frame-mounted for stable aiming regardless of feed tray position, and the system is compatible with advanced fire control accessories.
The MG 338 is being inducted to upgrade the IDF’s heavy machine gun capability with a lighter, more lethal system. Its primary advantage is to support both infantry and special operation units in frontline combat roles with extended range and increased penetration power.
-The writer is an Israel-based freelance journalist. The views expressed are of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of Raksha Anirveda
