LMT® Defense Signs License Agreement By Hajny October 11, 2025 Uncategorized For immediate release. LMT® Defense and Northrop Grumman® Corporation enter into a license agreement for production of 7.62mm Bushmaster® Chain Gun®. LMT® Defense and Northrop Grumman® finalized a license agreement for production and distribution of the 7.62X51mm Bushmaster® Chain Gun®. The established, long-term agreement will allow LMT Defense to manufacture the 7.62mm Chain Gun for both the US military and partner forces. Additionally, a cooperative market strategy has been developed for both companies to offer the Chain Gun in various programs individually. This initiative fits LMT’s strategic objective to provide extremely reliable small-caliber systems for remotely operated and autonomous applications, which is a rapidly growing sector. Northrop Grumman has a long, proven history with their Bushmaster Chain Gun designs. These systems have earned a reputation for reliability and combat-proven performance. Systems like the 7.62mm Chain Gun have been part of that legacy, providing trusted, battle-proven firepower for modern missions. Under this agreement, the 7.62mm Chain Gun will be produced and tested in the Eldridge, IA facility. The weapon is capable of various mounting and operation methods, 600 rpm sustained fire, automatic malfunction clearing, and electric drive for unmatched reliability. Along with the weapon, LMT will offer service, training, and remote customer support for the life of the agreement. This partnership between LMT and Northrop Grumman is yet another milestone event to accent other notable successes in 2025. Contracts acquired this year include but are not limited to a program to deliver various weapons to the Swiss Armed Forces as well as being awarded an extensive contract from USSOCOM for a 6.5 Creedmoor version of our popular MARS®-H battle rifle known as the MRGG-A. “We are proud to partner with Northrop Grumman on this venture. We have a long-standing professional relationship with them and know they share LMT’s core values and ethos which drives our passion to serve the US and allied warfighters, understanding Failure is Not an Option®” Karl Lewis said. ————————- About LMT Defense LMT® Defense (Lewis Machine & Tool Company) is a premiere manufacturer of gas piston AR 15 type, .308 rifle, M203 grenade launchers, Suppressors and firearms accessories used throughout the United States and in over 45 countries around the world. The company was founded in 1980 and currently operates out of a manufacturing facility in Eldridge, Iowa with the mission of designing and producing the highest quality products for the military and government agencies. LMT Defense is known for its Monolithic Rail Platform (MRP™) and provides customers with the highest standards in design, engineering and quality assurance across its product lines. LMT has been a GSA supplier since 2005 and has a quality management system certified to ISO 9001:2015 by Intertek. CONTACT Joe Hajny Business Development Manager 1600 E Leonard Ct. Eldridge, IA 52748 (309) 787-7151 [email protected]
New Contract with Swiss Armed Forces By Hajny February 24, 2025 ContractsNews FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE LMT Defense and SWISSLOXX AG Secure Significant Swiss Armed Forces Small Arms Contract Eldridge, Iowa – February 23, 2025 – LMT Defense, in partnership with SWISSLOXX AG, is proud to announce the award of a significant contract to supply small arms to the Swiss Armed Forces. The contract, for rifles in various calibers, will primarily focus on the 5.56 x 45 NATO caliber, type classified as the Sturmgewehr 25. This prestigious award underscores both companies’ dedication to delivering precision, reliability, and innovation to one of the world’s most demanding military organizations. Meeting the Swiss Standard of Excellence The Swiss Armed Forces are renowned for their rigorous procurement processes, reflecting the nation’s unwavering commitment to quality and precision. LMT Defense and SWISSLOXX AG were selected based on the exceptional performance, durability, and accuracy of their proposed small arms, a testament to the companies’ shared commitment to exceeding the highest defense requirements. Innovation and Performance in Every Detail LMT Defense and SWISSLOXX AG continually push the boundaries of small arms technology. Their weapons are: Engineered for Precision: Optimized components ensure consistent accuracy and performance. Built for Durability: Proven to withstand harsh conditions and rigorous testing. Designed for Reliability: Innovative features minimize malfunction risks and maximize mission readiness. A Partnership for the Future of Defense “We are honored to support the Swiss Armed Forces with our advanced small arms solutions,” said Karl Lewis, President of LMT Defense. “This contract reflects our commitment to quality and innovation and strengthens our successful partnership with SWISSLOXX AG.” About LMT Defense LMT Defense is a leading global provider of advanced small arms and defense technologies. With a history of serving elite military units worldwide, LMT Defense emphasizes quality, reliability, and cutting-edge design. About SWISSLOXX AG SWISSLOXX AG delivers precision defense solutions designed to enhance military capabilities on a global scale. The company’s expertise lies in integrating robust engineering with forward-thinking innovation to meet customers’ evolving needs. Media Contacts: LMT Defense Email: [email protected] Phone: +1 309 787 7151 SWISSLOXX AG Communications Office Email: [email protected] Phone: +41 43 211 03 22
LMT Support of Royal Moroccan Army By Lecander August 6, 2024 News LMT is proud to announce that we continue to support the Royal Moroccan Army modernization and with it’s mission to defend Morocco and it’s various peace keeping missions. The Kingdom of Morocco is part of multiple international organizations and is a Major non- NATO ally of the United States. The Royal Moroccan Army has been a key member of many multinational U.N. peacekeeping missions. The Royal Moroccan Army also performs an annual training exercise called “African Lion” with the United States Marine Corps. The exercise is a regularly scheduled, combined U.S. – Moroccan military exercise designed to promote improved interoperability and mutual understanding of each nation’s tactics, techniques, procedures, unit readiness and enhancing foreign relations. Specifications Model:MLK105A-MARSCaliber:5.56×45Operating Method:Direct ImpingementMagazine Capacity:30 RoundsBarrel:10.5 in / 266mmRifling:1:7″Selector:Safe/Semi/FullTrigger:F/A Two Stage A.X.L.EColor:Black
Karl Lewis Receives Award from Estonia MoD By Hajny January 3, 2024 News On November 29th, 2023 LMT Defense President and founder was invited to the capital of Estonia, Tallinn, to receive the Medal of Merit from the Estonia Ministry of Defence. This award, the Golden Badge of the Ministry of Defense, is in recognition of LMT’s long-term and successful cooperation in Estonia’s defense investments. The medal was presented by the Estonian Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur in recognition to contributors of the Estonian national defense for outstanding work and developments in the field of defense. Pictured is Karl receiving the medal of merit award from Estonian Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur, Karl with Mr. Magnus Saar, Director General of the Estonian Centre for Defence Investments, and the Golden Badge of the Ministry of Defence of Estonia Certificate. In 2019, LMT Defense successfully entered into a contract with the EDF to provide a new generation of small arms for its warfighters. The main contract, which completed initial deliveries early in 2023, was comprised of a custom version of the 5.56 MARS-L piston carbine, a piston 7.62 MARS-H DMR weapon, and a supply of rail mount M203 40mm grenade launchers to accompany the 5.56 carbines. This contract marks an ongoing partnership with another NATO ally with global peace keeping operations and follows the U.K. Ministry of Defence and the New Zealand Defence Force as another large scale deployment of LMT products to the modern battlefield. “On behalf of LMT Defense, I am deeply humbled and honored to receive the Golden Badge,” said President Karl Lewis. “This recognition is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our entire team, who consistently strive to push the boundaries of innovation and provide our customers with the most advanced Small Arms and Grenade Launcher solutions.” LMT Defense, has consistently demonstrated its commitment to excellence throughout its history. The company boasts a proven track record of developing and delivering cutting-edge defense technologies, including small arms and grenade launcher solutions, to support international defense efforts UK MOD, New Zealand, Colombia, Jordon, just to name a few. The Golden Badge, awarded for exceptional contributions to strengthening Estonian defense capabilities, underscores LMT Defense’s dedication to providing its partners with the tools and support they need to ensure national security and peace. LMT Defense and its renowned team of small arms engineers and manufacturing technicians are committed to producing reliable defense solutions through advancements in research and development and technology innovations. With a strong focus on customer support and collaboration, LMT Defense consistently strives to exceed expectations and contribute to a safer world.
LMT Defense Secures Contract in Jordan By Hajny January 23, 2023 ContractsNews Eldridge, IA – Jan 17th, 2023 – LMT Defense is happy to announce its latest Contract with the PSD (Public Security Directorate) in Jordan. LMT will begin construction of and delivery of 2,700 units of customized version of our SPM14 (Standard Patrol Model) this year. Established on January 1st 1956, The Public Security Directorate (PSD) was created as a vital institution used to strengthen security and stability and protect Jordanian citizens. 2019 to 2021 saw a merging of the Civil Defense and the Gendarmerie departments under the umbrella of the PSD as a unified Law Enforcement Agency in Jordan; this change was implemented as a way to guarantee professional security coordination, enhance the services provided to citizens, and positively influence the general budget in Jordan. SPM14A-JOR LMT Defense won the contract based on the best performance and value. Moreover, as LMT Defense is one of the major International suppliers to the Military and Law Enforcement agencies in Jordan, LMT participated in the tender for the Jordanian Public Security Directorate for the purpose of supplying 5.56 rifles in order to develop the capabilities of the various security services in Jordan and updating the quality of the weapons used through the purchase of LMT. “Happy to rejuvenate our business with the PSD. We supported their initiatives back in 2015 and we are pleased to continue to build on that relationship going forward” – Zach Sisco International Sales Manager. ——- About LMT DefenseLMT Defense (Lewis Machine & Tool Company) is a premiere manufacturer of gas piston AR 15 type, .308 rifle, M203 grenade launchers, Suppressors and firearms accessories used throughout the United States and in over 45 countries around the world. The company was founded in 1980 in Milan, Illinois with the mission of designing and producing the highest quality products for the military and government agencies. LMT Defense is known for its Monolithic Rail Platform and provides customers with the highest standards in design, engineering and quality assurance across its product lines. CONTACTZach SiscoInternational Sales Manager1600 E Leonard Ct.Eldridge, IA 52748(309) 787-7151[email protected]
LMT Defense Ships Initial Delivery to USSOCOM MRGG-S Down-Select Trials By Hajny September 14, 2022 ContractsNews Eldridge, Iowa – Aug, 10th 2022– LMT Defense (formerly known as Lewis Machine & Tool) is excited to announce that we have qualified for down selection and have delivered the initial units for user evaluation to USSOCOM Starting in 2019 USSOCOM (United States Special Operations Command) voiced its desire to field a weapon system that could provide overmatch on the battlefield against small arms threats. The initial caliber choices for such and endeavor were the 260 Rem and 6.5 Creedmoor. The 6.5 Creedmoor was ultimately chosen due to ability to engage targets at significantly longer distances than the 308 Win or 7.62 NATO and unmatched commercial ability to acquire or produce cartridges from available components. This move follows a common thread in modern US warfighting to improve soldier lethality in combat. The MRGG-S or Mid-Range Gas Gun (Sniper) program was developed and solicited to the defense industry. Specifics for the weapon system were delivered and would primarily benefit NSW (Naval Special Warfare). The MRGG-S would feature a 20” barrel, fully adjustable stock, meet 1 MOA accuracy at 100 yards, quick change barrel system, and feature a sound suppression system all while working under tight length and weight constraints. LMT Defense using successes in DMR programs starting as early as 2009 with the L129A1 delivered to the UK MOD (United Kingdom Ministry of Defence), was able to meet the needs of SOCOM quickly and efficiently with commonly utilized components. MRGG-S shown with new LMT Suppressor LMT built a MARS-H weapon system with a few specifications to better meet the needs of Americas premiere war fighters. Our tried-and-true MRP-H monolithic upper was lengthened slightly to accommodate users with clip-on night vision or thermal devices as well as laser aiming equipment. Additionally, the locking screws for the MRP were designed to be captured thus increasing reliability in field operations where barrel swaps would be required. Weight savings were seen not only in the upper, but the 6.5CM barrel that was also specifically enhanced to best perform with the ammunition chosen by the end user. For the first time on a MARS-H or MWS, we see the addition of a forward assist. This was requested by NSW to improve the reliability of seating a round in battery when utilizing the weapon in low light conditions where “press checks” are commonly employed. To top it off, a custom titanium suppressor fitted to a Keymo flash hider and a fully equipped accessory case is provided with the weapon. Summer of 2022 marked our final accuracy qualification of the initial delivery of MRGG-S program rifles. The average MOA achieved out of this delivery was just under .85 MOA collectively. The weapon systems now enter a user evaluation phase where the performance, handling ergonomics, and characteristics of the weapons will be field tested to meet the demands of the end user. We are thoroughly pleased with the product made in part by the unwavering effort of our staff here in Eldridge, IA and look forward to the results of the MRGG program as a whole. ——- About LMT DefenseLMT Defense (Lewis Machine & Tool Company) is a premiere manufacturer of gas piston AR 15 type, .308 rifle, M203 grenade launchers, Suppressors and firearms accessories used throughout the United States and in over 45 countries around the world. The company was founded in 1980 in Milan, Illinois with the mission of designing and producing the highest quality products for the military and government agencies. LMT Defense is known for its Monolithic Rail Platform and provides customers with the highest standards in design, engineering and quality assurance across its product lines. CONTACTJoe HajnySales & Marketing Manager1600 E Leonard Ct.Eldridge, IA 52748(309) 787-7151[email protected]
LMT Defense Partners with LMT Advanced Technologies for ION 30 Promotion! By Hajny August 18, 2022 Sales & Promos Free Defender lower with ION 30 purchase As of 8/17/22 LMT Defense will be partnering with sister company LMT Advanced Technologies to promote their new suppressor line, the LMT AT ION 30. This new promotion was developed to ease the sting of purchasing an NFA item and the associated wait times. When a customer buys an LMT AT Ion 30 at the retail price of $899, he or she will be eligible to receive a FREE LMT Defense Defender stripped lower. The LMT Defender lower, which has been a classic item used on LMT products since the late 90’s, is a mil-spec AR-15 style lower that is marked “Multi-Cal” and can be utilized on a wide variety or carbine, rifle, or pistol builds. At a $179 retail value, the FREE Defender lower which will be immediately available, is sure to help with the unavoidable burden of waiting for your new suppressor to get out of “ATF Jail”. To qualify for this promotion, the customer will need to send an email to [email protected] with the title “ION Defender” and include their receipt of purchase and serial number of the suppressor. Additionally, the end user will need to state which FFL the suppressor and ultimately the lower, will be transferred through. This program is running through September 30th, 2022. Limited quantities of the new LMT AT ION 30 suppressor are available and customers must act quickly. There is no limit per customer and when supplies are gone, they are gone. About the LMT AT ION: LMT Advanced Technologies signature multi-caliber suppressor is here. The ION brings to the market a blend of core features that the modern weapon handler values. Great sound reduction, modular configuration, and baffle designs that reduce gas blowback to the shooter and excessive stress on the weapon system, are all products of the in house developed and manufactured technology our suppressor offers. ION 30 uses commercial features like the industry standard base thread and replaceable end caps and combines them with the strength and durability required by military forces worldwide. Designed to exceed US SOCOM endurance test schedule and built with the same core style as our belt fed suppressors, the ION 30 is the best all-around environmental sound suppressor for your next mission.
New Sniper Systems in Chile By Hajny December 1, 2021 News https://www.infodefensa.com/texto-diario/mostrar/3293203/boe-lautaro-ejercito-chile-incorpora-fusil-lewis-machine-tool-company-mars-h We are pleased to announce that our customer base has grown yet again within the international special operations community. The Chilean Army BOE, or Special Operations Brigade, has recently taken delivery of their new MARS-H weapon systems. With a primary focus on sniper roles, the MARS-H will be of great value to the teams in country due to its modularity and ability to be configured in mission specific kits. This marks this first contract in Chile and it just the beginning of a great relationship with the Chilean Army and larger operations in the South American region overall. Special thanks to our in country agent Magnatrade Tech for coordination and facilitation of the contract. Gratitude is also due to German Bovet(Bovet Elite Trace), training coordinator attached to the Chilean Army tender, for providing in country services. About LMT DefenseLMT Defense (Lewis Machine & Tool Company) is a premiere manufacturer of gas piston AR 15 type, .308 rifle, M203 grenade launchers, Suppressors and firearms accessories used throughout the United States and in over 45 countries around the world. The company was founded in 1980 in Milan, Illinois with the mission of designing and producing the highest quality products for the military and government agencies. LMT Defense is known for its Monolithic Rail Platform and provides customers with the highest standards in design, engineering and quality assurance across its product lines. The first large scale contract of the MARS-H began in 2019 with the debut of the Estonia piston operated 7.62 NATO system. Prior to that, the MWS had several large scale deployments as the L129A1 with the UK MOD, and again with the NZDF as a DMR. CONTACTZach SiscoInternational Sales Manager1600 E Leonard Ct.Eldridge, IA 52748(309) 787-7151[email protected]
LMT Defense Wins U.S. Army Contract to Produce Grenade Launchers By admin March 9, 2021 News LMT Defense, America’s premier weapons manufacturer, is pleased to announce that they have been selected to provide grenade launchers to the U.S. Army. Karl Lewis, President and CEO of LMT Defense stated, “LMT Defense is very proud to provide the U.S. Army M203/M203A2 grenade launchers. Enhancing mission effectiveness for our soldiers on the battlefield is our number one priority.” Lewis added, “LMT has made over 15,000 grenade launchers in the last 10 years. We have supported many allied nations, law enforcement, the U.S. Navy, and several other U.S. federal agencies. Every component of the grenade launcher will be manufactured at our 80,000 square foot facility in Eldridge, IA.” Official Announcement: https://www.defense.gov/Newsroom/Contracts/Contract/Article/2353697/
LMT Defense Begins Deliveries to the Estonian Defense Force By admin March 9, 2021 News LMT Defense, America’s premier weapons manufacturer, is pleased to announce that it has begun delivering weapon systems and providing new equipment training (NET) to the Estonian Defense Force (EDF). A unique MARS-H 7.62 caliber rifle with a piston operating system was developed for this contract. This new variant, in the 7.62 family of rifles, utilizes LMT’s patented Monolith Rail Platform (MRP). LMT Defense plans to offer the 7.62 piston operated rifles and components. The contract award was announced in May 2019 LMT Announcement. The rifles are the LMT Modular Ambidextrous Rifle System (MARS) family of rifles (5.56 and 7.62) – Developed in 2014 and delivered, under contract, to New Zealand Defense Force. The MARS weapon platform is a true ambidextrous system – including: bolt catch, bolt release, safety selector, magazine release, and charging handle. Additionally, the EDF purchased 40mm grenade launchers. These EDF rifles include a single position piston setting, a bayonet lug, and a European-style trigger that allows the operator to put the rifle in the safe position when the hammer is un-cocked. Furthermore, shot counters have been installed into a new LMT ergonomic grip.
Sweat, Lead, and Steel By admin December 26, 2019 News The first ever full feature history of Karl Lewis, Lewis Machine & Tool, and where we are headed. Starting in a 10X10 corner of an auto shop, to today in our state of the art machine shop, LMT Defense is poised to remain a prominent staple in weapon manufacturing for both the Defense and Commercial industry.
LMT Defense Announces Award with Estonian Defence Forces By admin May 21, 2019 Contracts Eldridge, Iowa – May 16, 2019– LMT Defense (formerly known as Lewis Machine & Tool) is pleased to announce the award of the firearms contract for Estonian Defence Forces. After an extensive 2 year tender and testing process, the Estonian Defence Forces have selected LMT Defense. The original competition had 12 companies respond to the call for tenderers. This week LMT Defense was finally confirmed as the chosen winner. LMT Defense is honored to be selected to supply complete small arms solutions to the Estonian Defence Forces, EDF. The rifle selected is the LMT MARS family of rifles, including the AR 15 type and AR 10 type rifles in addition to 40mm Grenade Launchers. The initial deliveries of rifles and accessories will commence in 2019 and is projected to be completed by 2021 with options for future modernization over the next 20 years. “We are committed to making the best weapons in the world”, said Karl Lewis. “This long term partnership between LMT Defense and EDF reflects our commitment to support our NATO Partners and worldwide allies” To assist with providing the best AR 15 type in the world, LMT Defense has partnered with Milrem LCM and Visible Assets. Milrem LCM is an Estonian Defense Lifecycle management provider to help conduct in country logistical support. Milrem LCM has been a partner with EDF since 2014 and has developed extensive knowledge through support of EDF armored combat vehicles. Visible Assets has created the latest technology of wireless shot counter and armory electronics to support EDF logistical capabilities. RuBee technology uses magnetic fields that provide battlefield security but provide the armory with automatic notifications of maintenance and security. These weapons utilize the LMT Defense monolithic upper on the MARS rifle system. The MARS was developed in 2014 and was initially delivered under contract to New Zealand Defence Force. The MARS weapon platform is a completely ambidextrous rifle system including ambidextrous bolt catch, bolt release, safety selector, magazine release and charging handle. ——- About LMT DefenseLMT Defense (Lewis Machine & Tool Company) is a premiere manufacturer of gas piston AR 15 type, .308 rifle, M203 grenade launchers, Suppressors and firearms accessories used throughout the United States and in over 45 countries around the world. The company was founded in 1980 in Milan, Illinois with the mission of designing and producing the highest quality products for the military and government agencies. LMT Defense is known for its Monolithic Rail Platform and provides customers with the highest standards in design, engineering and quality assurance across its product lines. In 2014, LMT Defense won the contract for New Zealand Defence Forces with the introduction of the MARS-L. CONTACTJoe HajnyCommercial Sales Manager1600 E Leonard Ct.Eldridge, IA 52748(309) 787-7151[email protected] AR 15 is a registered trademark to Colt Manufacturing, LLC AR 10 is a registered trademark to ArmaLite, Inc.
LMT Defense Wins Contract for Estonian Defence Forces By admin December 4, 2018 Contracts MILAN, ILLINOIS – December 4, 2018 – LMT Defense is pleased to announce the award of the firearms contract for Estonian Defence Forces. Lewis Machine & Tool, LMT Defense, participated in a tender bid opportunity to replace all current weapons with Estonian Defence Forces. This tender is for an initial sale of rifles and ancillaries to be delivered by 2021 with the opportunity for additional rifles and ancillaries to be delivered through 2026. The weapons were tested to stringent standards that are used on today’s most advanced weapon systems. “We are proud to be the selected winner for Estonian Defence Forces”, Said Karl Lewis, “This shows our commitment to making high quality weapons for our NATO partners and worldwide allies.” LMT Defense has selected Milrem LCM, an Estonian defense systems lifecycle management provider as their local partner. Milrem LCM has been the partner of the Estonian Defence Forces since 2014 and has extensive knowledge with armored and combat vehicles. “We are glad to be able to provide our support to Lewis Machine & Tool in this project,” said Ingvar Pärnamae, Managing Director of Milrem LCM. These weapons utilize the LMT Defense monolithic upper on the MARS rifle system. The MARS was developed in 2014 and was initially delivered under contract to New Zealand Defence Force. The MARS weapon platform is a completely ambidextrous rifle system including ambidextrous bolt catch, bolt release, safety selector, magazine release and charging handle. LMT® Defense Signs License Agreement New Contract with Swiss Armed Forces LMT Support of Royal Moroccan Army Karl Lewis Receives Award from Estonia MoD LMT Defense Secures Contract in Jordan
