Modular handgun system concept for US Army

Yesterday, the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) became the first unit to field the US Army’s new M17 and M18 Modular Handgun System. The 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st ABN DIV (AASLT) began fielding the new handguns today at Fort Campbell, Kentucky under the command of Col. Derek K. Thomson.

The MHS handgun is a variant of the SIG Sauer P320 pistol and is equipped with an external safety, an integrated MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rail for the attachment of light and laser systems, self-illuminating night sights to maintain combat effectiveness in all lighting conditions, and is capable of accepting a sound suppressor. 

“We are both humbled and proud that the P320 was selected by the US Army as its weapon of choice,” Ron Cohen, President and CEO of SIGSauer, Inc., said. “Securing this contract is a testimony to SIG SAUER employees and their commitment to innovation, quality and manufacturing the most accurate and reliable firearms in the world.“

Over the next 10 years the Army will distribute the new MHS handguns to all Army units replacing the M9 pistol, which has been in service since 1986.

DPM