Back in June FN launched their new ARKA platform, their next generation replacement for the SCAR. Earlier this week, at the UK’s DVD 2026 defense expo at Millbrook, TFB got a chance to take a closer look at FN’s new ARKA.
Combining the operating system of the battle-tested SCAR and the ergonomics of the AR-platfom, the ARKA is FN’s next generation 5.56x45mm service rifle. It combines the short-stroke piston operating system and the bolt design of the SCAR with ergonomic and engineering improvements driven by customer feedback and requests.
ARKA is available in a number of variations: the standard configuration has either a 14.5” standard barrel paired with a short or long M-LOK handguard, while the shorter carbine configuration comes with an 11.25” close quarter combat barrel and the short configuration M-LOK handguard. All configurations of the new rifle are available in FDE or black finishes. The rifle on display at DVD 2026 was the 14.5in rifle with the short forend in FDE. The shorter forend allows the option of mounting a bayonet. Both handguard configurations have a large cutout for accessing the adjustable gas block.
On handling ARKA I was pleasantly surprised by its weight and balance, and in terms of ergonomics, FN has taken cues from the AR-platform, with a rear T-charging handle, familiar ambidextrous control locations: bolt hold open/release, magazine release and safety selector. ARKA has a new MLOK forend which is much more ergonomic than the legacy SCAR’s Picatinny quad rails and lighter too. For any user in the field weight is always a key consideration and on paper FN say that unloaded the carbine weighs approximately 3.7 kg (8.2 lb) while the standard rifle comes in at around 3.9 kg (8.6 lb). Briefly handling a rifle at an expo is no comparison for using the weapon in the field or even getting it out to the flat range but I came away feeling like the ARKA didn’t feel like a near 4kg weapon.
The new rifle can also be fitted with any AR-compatible buttstocks or pistol grips. FN noted that additional stock configurations are in the works. With no buffer system, a folding stock option, as with the SCAR, seems a no brainer. To the surprise of some the ARKA also features an AR-stlyle forward assist, this however, can be removed and replaced with a simpler brass deflector piece. FN say the rifle has been optimised for gas management during suppressed operation and can be paired with various suppressors.
