Vortex XM157 NGSW Fire Control (M157)

The Vortex XM157, also called M157, is the U.S. Army's fielded fire control system for the Next Generation Squad Weapon program. Its 1-8x30 low-power variable optic combines an etched reticle with a transparent digital display in the first focal plane. Vortex uses U.S.-made lenses and assembles the system in Barneveld, Wisconsin. The Army selected Vortex in January 2022 under a 10-year contract for up to 250,000 units. Fielding began with the 101st Airborne at Fort Campbell in April 2024. It replaces the M68 CCO and M150 ACOG on NGSW systems, the M7 rifle and M250 automatic rifle, and the Army also lists the XM8 carbine as a host. The Army publishes the system at 2.67 pounds and 10.5 inches long.

A removable top module houses the laser rangefinder and co-aligned visible and infrared aiming lasers. Pressure, temperature, inclination, and compass sensors feed the Army's Government Ballistic Software for Small Arms. The display shows a corrected drop point, 10 mph wind holds, elevation angle, and rifle cant. Two CR123A batteries power the electronics. With power off, the etched reticle remains usable as a conventional 1-8x scope.

Army testing found substantial drawbacks. In its FY2024 report, the Director of Operational Test and Evaluation (DOT&E) reported soldier usability ratings of below average/failing. The XM7 with XM157 also had a low probability of completing a 72-hour wartime mission without a critical failure. The FY2025 report found that most M250s fitted with M157s lost zero during the operational assessment or airborne test, and ergonomic complaints persisted. The system is not available for civilian purchase.