S&T Motiv K16
S&T Motiv (formerly Daewoo Precision Industries) · Machine Gun · In Production · 2021
Also known as: K16 GPMG, SNT Motiv K16
Overview
The S&T Motiv K16 is a South Korean gas-operated, belt-fed general purpose machine gun chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO. Developed by SNT Motiv to replace the aging M60 and supplement the 5.56mm K3 in Republic of Korea Armed Forces service, it fires from an open bolt and feeds from 100-round disintegrating belts. The design features a quick-change barrel with a carry handle, an integrated Picatinny rail for thermal and optical sights, flip-up iron sights, and an open flash deflector. Deployed from December 2021, the K16 offers roughly 30 percent greater range and about double the destructive power of the K3.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 10400 g (366.8 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1200 mm (47.24") |
| Barrel Length | 559 mm (22.01") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated |
| Firing Mechanism | Open Bolt |
| Trigger Type | Automatic |
| Magazine Capacity | 100 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Belt |
| Muzzle Velocity | 840 m/s (2756 fps) |
| Effective Range | 1100 m (1203 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 3725 m (4074 yd) |
| Rate of Fire | 800 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right-Hand |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Chrome-Lined Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Phosphate |
Calibers
- 7.62x51mm NATO · primary · 7.62x51mm NATO — also known as .308 Winchester, 7.62mm NATO
Features
- Firing modes: Full Automatic
- Feed systems: 100-Round Disintegrating Belt
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: Open-Bolt Operation, Quick-Change Barrel, Hinged Bipod, Picatinny Rail For Thermal And Optical Sights, Flip-Up Iron Sights, Open Flash Deflector, Ergonomic Pistol Grip
Production
Production years: 2021-present
Standard-issue GPMG of the Republic of Korea Armed Forces from December 2021.
Origin
Country of origin: South Korea
Designer: SNT Motiv
Notes
Procurement of the initial batch was valued at about 124.2 billion won; full fielding across the ROK armed services was planned through 2024.
Background
Unveiled and fielded in December 2021, the K16 is South Korea's first indigenously developed general-purpose machine gun, ending decades of reliance on the American M60 for the squad and platoon support role.