The FN Minimi (Mini Mitrailleuse; "mini machine gun") is a 5.56×45mm NATO light machine gun developed by Ernest Vervier for FN Herstal of Belgium, produced since 1977. The weapon uses an open-bolt, gas-actuated long-stroke piston system and a stamped metal receiver. It was adopted by the US military as the M249.
The Minimi Para is the more compact variant with a retractable metal stock.
