Minimi Para

The Minimi is a 5.56x45mm light machine gun in service in many militaries around the world. The 5.56x45mm round lacks the punch of the 7.62x51mm round of the GPMG, but both the Minimi and its ammunition are lighter and more convenient to carry.

The Minimi, in its full-size version, was first used within the British military by the SAS. The Minimi, with its high rate of fire combined with the amount of ammo one man could carry, made it ideal for Special Forces operations. The Bravo Two Zero foot patrol took several Minimis with them into Iraq during the 1st Gulf War.

The Minimi Para is a version designed with Special Forces in mind. The Para has a extendable stock and shortened barrel. The Minimi Para has now replaced the GPMG in most British military foot patrols, although both the Marines and Paras still like to take the GPMG around with them.

Minimis are usually fed from a 200 round ammo box. Standard Nato 30-round magazines can also be fitted. The Minimi can lay down fire at 700-1000 rounds-per-minute at a range up to 800 meters.

Minimi Para with bi pod unfolded, stock extended, 200 round ammo box fitted.