US Army Seeks Record $580Mln Handgun Firing Fragmenting Bullets

The US Army has requested submissions for what will be the most expensive and one of the biggest handgun contracts in history worth $580 million, the Army Times reported.

WASHINGTON, (Sputnik) – And for the first time, the US Army’s official sidearm may be capable of firing expanding or fragmenting bullets, the report published on Tuesday noted.

"The solicitation issued August 28 calls for key features of the Army's new Modular Handgun System — dubbed the XM17 — to include enhanced accuracy, ergonomics, terminal effects and reliability," the Army Times said.

The new sidearm will replace the Army's Beretta M9 pistol, currently in service, the report said. The total value of the Beretta contract over the past 30 years is estimated as $400 million.