The FN Five-seveN in the French Army

 

The FN Five-seveN, a semi-automatic pistol from the Belgian company FN Herstal, has gained popularity in many armed forces and security agencies worldwide, including within certain specialized units of the French army. Its technical characteristics and performance make it a prized handgun for various military and security missions.

 

Summary:

- Usage context

- Technical specifications

- Strategic advantages

- User units

- Usage scenarios

- Conclusion

 

 

In France, the FN Five-seveN is primarily used by special units and close protection forces. Its unique properties in terms of body armor penetration and its lightness make it particularly suitable for complex tactical missions.

 

 

• Caliber: 5.7x28 mm
   
• Weight: 744 grams empty
   
• Magazine capacity: 20 rounds
   
• Barrel length: 122 mm
   
• Construction materials: The Five-seveN is primarily made of reinforced polymer to reduce weight while maintaining durability and resistance to harsh environmental conditions.
   
• Operating system: It is a semi-automatic pistol operating by short barrel recoil, with barrel locking by tilting breech.
   
• Safety: It is equipped with several safety devices, including an ambidextrous safety lever located on the grip and a disarming lever.
   
• Sights: Civilian and military models may vary in their sight system, but generally, the Five-seveN is equipped with fixed or adjustable sight systems for increased accuracy.
   
• Accessories: It can be equipped with accessories such as lasers or tactical lights mounted on rails, to improve operational capability in low-light conditions or during specific tactical operations.

 

These characteristics allow the FN Five-seveN to offer high muzzle velocity, great firing capacity, and excellent maneuverability.

 

fnamerica.com

 

 

• Body armor penetration: The 5.7x28 mm caliber allows the FN Five-seveN to pierce NIJ IIIA type body protection, which is essential for neutralizing adversaries equipped with body armor.
   
• Lightness and maneuverability: Its low weight facilitates quick and precise handling, which is crucial for field operations and close protection missions.
   
• High fire capacity: With a 20-round magazine, soldiers have significant firing autonomy before having to reload, thus increasing their effectiveness in combat.
   
• Low recoil: The 5.7 mm caliber generates moderate recoil, allowing for more accurate shots and improved control, even in rapid fire.

 

 

The FN Five-seveN is deployed primarily by specialized units of the French army, such as:

• Special forces: French special forces often use handguns like the Five-seveN when deployed in missions where discretion, lightness, and weapon versatility are essential. The Five-seveN is appreciated for its ability to fire light but fast ammunition, making it a suitable weapon for various special operations.
   
• Close protection units: Responsible for the security of personalities and VIPs, these units benefit from the lightness and maneuverability of the Five-seveN.
   
• Gendarmerie Forces: In the context of counter-terrorism operations conducted by units like the National Gendarmerie Intervention Group (GIGN), the Five-seveN can be used as a backup weapon or for situations where controlled and precise firepower is necessary. Its ability to fire the 5.7x28mm cartridge, which combines high velocity with low mass, makes it an interesting choice for short and medium-range engagements.
  
  
• Police Force: Although primarily used by special forces and counter-terrorism units, the Five-seveN can also be deployed by certain specialized units of the national police for missions requiring light and precise armament.

 

sengager.fr

 

 

The FN Five-seveN is ideal for missions such as:

Counter-terrorism operations

• Specialized units of the gendarmerie and police, such as the GIGN (National Gendarmerie Intervention Group), use the FN Five-seveN for its capabilities to penetrate body armor and other light ballistic protection, often worn by terrorists. The precision and magazine capacity allow for effective interventions in situations where hostages may be present, requiring precise and controlled shots.

 

Urban operations

• In urban environments, where engagements can occur at close range, the FN Five-seveN offers an ideal combination of maneuverability and firepower. Soldiers can use it for close combat in buildings, streets, and other urban environments where range and maneuverability are essential.

 

Close protection

• Units responsible for close protection (such as High Personality Protection Service teams) benefit from the FN Five-seveN's ability to deter and quickly neutralize threats while minimizing risks to surrounding civilians thanks to the weapon's precision.

 

Reconnaissance and infiltration operations

• For reconnaissance and infiltration missions, the lightness and discretion of the FN Five-seveN make it a weapon of choice. Soldiers can carry this weapon without being heavily encumbered, which is crucial for missions requiring stealth and mobility.

 

Close quarters combat (CQB)

• In close quarters combat scenarios, such as clearing buildings or other confined structures, the FN Five-seveN offers excellent maneuverability. Its 20-round magazine capacity allows soldiers to maintain firepower without needing to reload frequently, which is vital in situations where every second counts.

 

Naval missions

• For naval units operating at sea, where space is limited and engagements can be sudden, the FN Five-seveN is a valuable handgun. Its ability to fire 5.7x28mm ammunition is a major asset for maritime interdiction missions or ship protection.

 

Patrols and checkpoints

• During patrol missions or checkpoint maintenance, the FN Five-seveN's ability to neutralize potential threats effectively is crucial. Soldiers can rely on this weapon to provide a quick and effective response in case of confrontation.

 

 

The integration of the FN Five-seveN in certain units of the French army illustrates the pursuit of efficiency and modernity in military armament. Its ability to penetrate body armor, its low weight, and its high firing capacity make it a weapon of choice for missions requiring speed, precision, and reliability. With the Five-seveN, specialized units of the French army have a high-performance tool, adapted to contemporary challenges of security and defense.

The FN Five-Seven is particularly appreciated for its armor-piercing ammunition and its lightness. If you wish to discover other weapons in service, we recommend reading our article on the SIG Sauer SP 2022, a pistol widely used by the gendarmerie. You might also be interested in the HK416, a modern assault rifle, or the HK UMP. Finally, don't forget to check our central article on the different weapons used in the French army.