The Belgian small arms manufacturer FN Herstal announced on June 2, 2026 that it had developed a new assault rifle model named FN ARKA. The weapon will be unveiled for the first time at Eurosatory 2026. The FN ARKA is intended to be a next-generation assault rifle that combines reliability and intuitive operation. Therefore, the FN ARKA blends the reliable, precise, and field-tested mechanical operating principle of the FN SCAR weapon family on the one hand with the ergonomics known from AR platforms on the other hand—enhanced by improved ambidextrous operation.
Against this backdrop, the FN ARKA accordingly features a short-stroke gas piston system and a rotating bolt closure. With the design principle known from the FN SCAR, the platform is meant to exhibit high reliability with minimal weapon fouling, even in suppressor operation. This is further refined by a suppressor fully certified by FN. Likewise, the advanced gas management system is intended to help reduce recoil and to ensure the cycling is reliable and smooth.
FN ARKA with 14.5- and 11.25-inch barrels
The architecture of the FN ARKA is designed for ergonomics and rapid mobility and operation. All controls—the T-shaped charging handle, the forward assist, the ambidextrous fire selector and the ambidextrous magazine catch—are positioned to minimize transition times and physical fatigue. The fully ambidextrous bolt hold-open aids soldiers’ tactical behavior as well—it allows the weapon to be used in left- and right-shoulder positions, for example behind cover or in other mission-related situations.
Currently, the FN ARKA is available in 5.56 mm x 45 caliber. In addition to the 14.5-inch standard barrel, a shorter CQC barrel with a length of 11.25 inches is also available. Other features in the standard version include a long or short handguard with M-Lok interfaces or a short CQC handguard also with M-Lok interfaces. A long Picatinny-type rail on the top of the weapon can accommodate optical sights and iron sights. All configurations are available in black or earth brown. Also available are semi-automatic and fully automatic or semi-automatic-only trigger groups.
Compatible with AR parts
The weapon can be equipped with all available AR-compatible buttstocks or pistol grips. AR-type magazines can also be used. FN, as a system house, can furthermore supply a broad accessories package for the weapons. This includes numerous optics, laser-light modules, maneuver cartridge devices and other attachment parts from various FN-certified manufacturers. Of course, the FN ARKA is also compatible with the FN Smartcore weapon management system and the FN Victor training system.
The FN ARKA has, according to the Liège-based weapons system house, been tested under the harshest conditions. The adjustable gas block and high-quality materials are intended to ensure the weapon’s reliable function even in demanding environmental conditions – whether dust, fine sand, mud, or in water. FN offers technical support services throughout the entire lifecycle. This includes training of the weapons maintainers and repairers as well as the users to enable the weapon platform to be ready for deployment from the outset. German authorities’ distribution is, as usual, handled through Teuto Defence.
