Industry Watch
SMARTSHOOTER Unveils SMASH 3000 Adaptation for Heavy Machine Guns
New fire-control system showcased at DSEI 2025 brings smart-shooting technology to HMG platforms
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍London, United Kingdom
LONDON, United Kingdom At the 2025 Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) show, SMARTSHOOTER revealed a new adaptation of its SMASH 3000 fire-control system, now configured for use with heavy machine guns (HMGs). The debut marks an important milestone in the integration of digital fire-control technology into some of the most powerful and logistically challenging weapons in modern arsenals. SMARTSHOOTER has already demonstrated the effectiveness of its SMASH systems on small arms; this expansion to heavy platforms underscores the companys ambition to modernize training and combat use across the full spectrum of weapons. The SMASH 3000 family was developed to improve shooter accuracy and reduce the time required to train operators. By merging firearm-mounted sensors, advanced optics, and onboard computing, the system provides automated ballistic calculations and real-time target tracking. For smaller arms, this has proven to dramatically improve first-shot hit probability. Now, by adapting the technology to HMGs, SMARTSHOOTER aims to bring these advantages to weapons traditionally used for suppression and area denial rather than precision. The company emphasized that applying digital fire-control tools to heavy weapons allows operators to deliver accurate, sustained fire without wasting valuable ammunition. One of the standout features of the new variant is the integration of ballistic computers and optical sensors directly onto standard HMG mounts. Instructors at DSEI highlighted that the system eliminates the need for manual range estimation and trajectory corrections, enabling gunners to concentrate on tactical decisions rather than calculations. Real-time feedback displayed through the system interface helps operators adjust aim dynamically, a capability that is especially important against moving targets or when firing from unstable platforms such as vehicles. A practical benefit is cost reduction. Heavy-caliber ammunition is expensive, and training with HMGs can strain defense budgets. By improving accuracy and shortening training cycles, the SMASH 3000 reduces the number of rounds needed for operators to achieve proficiency. This not only saves money but also reduces logistical burdens, a significant consideration for militaries managing global operations. The systems design allows training centers to incorporate it seamlessly into existing infrastructure, making the transition to smart training tools smoother and more cost-efficient. The SMASH 3000 for HMGs builds on technology that has already been validated in real-world combat. Earlier versions of the system have been fielded by multiple armed forces, where they demonstrated resilience in demanding conditions. According to SMARTSHOOTER representatives, adapting this proven system for heavy weapons ensures reliability while addressing the unique challenges posed by larger platforms. This includes managing recoil, sustaining accuracy during prolonged fire, and accommodating heavier mounts without compromising usability. Industry analysts noted at DSEI that this announcement signals a broader trend toward digitization in the training and deployment of heavy weapons. Militaries worldwide are under pressure to modernize, and integrating smart fire-control systems into traditional weapons is viewed as a pragmatic way to achieve rapid capability gains. Observers also suggested that this development could open new export opportunities for SMARTSHOOTER, as allied nations often follow U.S. and European procurement patterns when adopting new technologies. The systems modularity and compatibility with widely used HMG platforms mean that barriers to adoption are relatively low. While SMARTSHOOTER has not disclosed pricing, analysts expect it to be competitive given the potential long-term savings in training and operations. Conventional units, not just special forces, are likely to benefit from the improved efficiency and effectiveness. Training centers already using smart systems for rifles may find it logical to extend the ecosystem to heavy weapons, ensuring consistent training methods across multiple calibers and platforms. Observers believe that integrating such advanced tools into heavy machine gun training will also change the way ranges are designed and managed. Facilities may need to incorporate data capture and performance monitoring tools to take full advantage of the SMASH systems feedback capabilities. This would allow for detailed after-action reviews, accelerating learning and making each training cycle more impactful.