Okay, this is sort of a primer for a discussion which eventually might lead to a longer text or a video on the subject.

My thoughts on the American NGSW program and what could possibly go wrong with it.

The short answer is basically that everything is already wrong

First, the whole program is built around a single "limited / counterinsurgency warfare" scenario, based solely on Iraq and Afghanistan experiences.

There apparently no serious thought were given to CQB/ MOUT or ammunition logistics and interchangeability with allies.

All bets were placed on a numerical "overmatch" in range and penetration, sacrificing everything else in the process, making the system too heavy and limiting the ammo capacity of a rifleman

This resulted in some very questionable approaches and solutions to achieve stated goals

First mistake, in my opinion, is a systematic American approach to attempt and develop new ammunition and new weapons at the same time. Both processes are really complicated, and if you try to mix them into one project, your development issues not sum but multiply. A proper approach is to first design and produce a viable ammunition type, suitable for a stated purpose, and then concurrently develop several competing weapons around this single type of ammunition. But this is not the American way, despite the fact that all their previous attempts at similar projects (i.e. SPIW and ACR) proved to be spectacular and expensive failures.

Second mistake is to concentrate on the overmatch in terms of range and effectiveness, thus disturbing a fragile balance of requirements that make a good all-around weapon. Basically, Americans are trying to build a shiny and expensive race car instead of a sturdy no-frills pickup.

So, in my opinion, this project at its core is not about Making US army greater again; it's about gaining political and career points and making money for parties involved. But then again, this is American way.

So, what are your thoughts on the subject?
This post is intentionally made open for everyone to allow for wider participation