FAMAE
FAMAE is a Chilean state-owned firearms manufacturer. Its products are used by the Chilean armed forces and the Carabineros police force. The company produces the FAMAE CT-30 carbine, the FAMAE SAF submachine gun, the FAMAE FD-200 sniper rifle, the SLM MLRS, and the FAMAE revolver, among other types of weaponry.
History
FAMAE began on October 8, 1811, when Francisco Ramon Vicuña was mandated to commission an arms factory.The name has changed a number of times over the years:
- In 1817, the factory was renamed the Arsenal de Artillería.
- In 1822, the factory was renamed the Fábrica de Armas de la Nación.
- In 1923, the factory was renamed the Fábricas y Maestranzas del Ejército.
- In 1930, the factory was renamed the Fábricas y Maestranzas del Ejército de Chile.
- In 1953, the factory was renamed the Fábricas y Maestranzas del Ejército de Chile FAMAE.
Projects
- Projects to supply weapons for tanks and armored units.
- Draft carts and arms supplies for mechanized infantry battalions.
- Projects for modernization of shells for light artillery units.
- Projects for provision, integration, and modernization of weapons systems, tanks, weaponry, and auxiliary trolleys for larger units that make up the infantry, armor, artillery and engineering.
In the 1960s, FAMAE began to export its products to other countries. The company's products are now used by the armed forces of over 20 countries.
In recent years, FAMAE has focused on research and development. Among its projects are the licensed versions of the Swiss-designed SIG SG 510-4 rifle, and SIG SG 542 rifle; FAMAE SAF submachine gun, Corvo military knives and Rayo MLRS and its related development the SLM MLRS. FAMAE is responsible for modifying and maintaining the tanks, aircraft and other military devices that are used by the Chilean Army.
FAMAE specializes in research projects and weapon system modernization.