The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have ordered NIS 67 million (EUR 17.18 million) worth of additional Negev light machine guns (LMGs) from Israel Weapon Industries (IWI), the company announced on 16 July 2025.
IWI did not specify exactly how many Negev LMGs are being procured, although this figure is likely to be in the region of at least 3,000 weapons.
Under the contract IWI will also provide a comprehensive maintenance package to ensure high operational readiness rates for the weapons over an extended period. The LMGs guns will be delivered to the IDF’s ground forces during 2026 and 2027.
Developed in close collaboration with the IDF, the 7.62 mm Negev UX LMG weighs 6.8 kg and, according to IWI, “delivers exceptional firepower, accuracy and reliability with low recoil and a semi-automatic firing mode, while offering superior manoeuvrability”. The company added that these features have provided “a lethal yet lightweight solution for fast-moving tactical engagements and close-quarter battle terrain” in the Swords of Iron War (what Israel calls the campaign against Hamas following the 7 October 2023 terrorist attack on Israel).
The Negev UX features a long Picatinny rail system for different optics and accessories, compatibility with various IWI suppressors, a telescopic buttstock, an M-LOK rail for different accessories, and a two-position gas regulator for both standard and extreme environmental conditions (such as mud and sand). Supporting both semi-automatic and full-automatic firing modes, the weapon is tailored for use in urban close-quarter combat as well as mid- and long-range engagements that require precision suppressive fire.
“We are proud to support the IDF with reliable and effective weapon systems that protect our country and our people,” Ronen Hamudot, vice chairman of IWI owner SK Group, was quoted as saying in a company press release. “We are honoured to see the IDF expanding its use of the Negev, which speaks to the proven effectiveness of the system by one of the most battle-tested armies in the world.”
