Turkish defense firm KALEKALIP is betting that speed and mobility will define the next phase of infantry firepower.
At Enforce Tac 2026, the company unveiled the KMG556CL, a 5.56mm machine gun that weighs just 5.6 kilograms (12.3 pounds) and delivers a firing rate of up to 900 rounds per minute.
Built around a short 10.5-inch (26.7-centimeter) barrel, the weapon is designed for close-quarters and mobile operations, where size and weight can be just as critical as firepower.
Despite its compact profile, it maintains a muzzle velocity of around 800 meters (2,625 feet) per second, supporting controlled fire at short to medium ranges.
Effective engagement is rated at about 400 meters (1,312 feet) against point targets and up to 600 meters (1,969 feet) for area targets.
Ammunition can be fed through 50-, 100-, or 200-round magazines, as well as soft-pack containers, giving units flexibility depending on mission requirements and mobility needs.
Compared with the earlier KMG556, which weighed around 7.8 kilograms (17.2 pounds), the new variant marks a notable reduction in load, an important factor for troops operating in urban environments, vehicles, or air platforms.
Flexible by Design
KALEKALIP said the KMG556CL is intended for special operations forces, vehicle and air crews, helicopter units, urban teams, and border patrol elements that require compact, fast-handling weapons.
Its design combines a side-folding stock with a vertical foregrip and integrated bipod, allowing rapid transitions between movement and stabilized firing.
Standard mounting rails support optics, grips, and other accessories, enabling role-specific customization.
A quick‑detachable barrel and integrated carry handle allow faster barrel changes during sustained fire.
Fully ambidextrous controls further ensure the weapon can be operated seamlessly by both right‑ and left‑handed soldiers.
