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TechMarine Corps fields new Squad Aiming Laser at School of Infantry
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The Marine Corps has begun fielding the Squad Aiming Laser (SAL), a new laser aiming system for squad weapons, to students at the School of Infantry at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Harry Mandeles, the service's project officer, described the SAL as a 'generational leap' from the legacy PEQ-16 system, which had been in service for nearly three decades. The SAL is lighter, shorter, and features all-digital controls, reducing eye strain and improving target identification through night vision goggles. The system is designed to enhance maneuverability, especially when mounted on the M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle. In February 2025, the Marine Corps awarded a $249 million contract to Envision Technology to supply SAL systems through 2030. Separately, U.S. Special Operations Command awarded a $49.9 million contract to B.E. Meyers & Company for a similar system.
Source report
The Marine Corps began fielding a new laser aiming system for squad weapons earlier this summer, introducing the technology to students at the School of Infantry at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.
In an August statement, Harry Mandeles, the service’s project officer for the Optics Team at Program Manager Ground Weapons Systems, described the Squad Aiming Laser (SAL) as a "generational leap" from the previous system, which had been in service for nearly three decades.
"Infantry Marines will notice significantly less eye strain and a much clearer target picture through their Night Vision Goggles (NVGs) compared to the legacy PEQ-16," Mandeles said.
Key Differences from the Legacy System
While both the SAL and the PEQ-16 can be mounted to a weapon’s rail and project visible and near-infrared lasers, the two systems share few other similarities:
- Design: The SAL features an "ultra-compact" design, weighing approximately three ounces less than the legacy system and measuring nearly half an inch shorter.
- Balance and Maneuverability: When mounted to an M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle (IAR), the lighter system improves the weapon’s overall balance and maneuverability, particularly during fast-paced operations.
- Performance: The SAL produces "a uniform, clean beam" that allows Marines wearing NVGs to identify targets faster and at greater distances.
- Controls: The system replaces the PEQ-16’s selector switch and activation buttons with all-digital controls.
Mandeles noted that the transition to the SAL will represent a "fundamental shift" in how small units operate at night.
Contract and Procurement
In February 2025, the Marine Corps awarded New Hampshire-based Envision Technology a $249 million contract to supply SAL systems and parts through 2030.
Approximately six months earlier, U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) awarded B.E. Meyers & Company a $49.9 million contract for a similar laser aiming system and an even smaller design in 2025.
Daniel Terrill is a contributor to Military Times. He has reported on military issues, the gun industry, and the outdoors for nearly two decades. His background includes service as a Marine, police officer, and substitute teacher.
Source
Marine Corps TimesWestern
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U.S. Marine Corps fields new Squad Aiming Laser at Camp Lejeune