The United States Secret Service, responsible for protecting high-ranking officials, utilizes a diverse range of firearms and equipment to ensure the safety of its protectees. Among the lesser-known weapons in their arsenal is the FN P90 submachine gun. While not as prominently featured as other firearms, the P90's unique characteristics make it a potentially valuable asset in specific security scenarios. This article delves into the possible reasons behind the Secret Service's use of the FN P90, exploring its features and suitability for close protection operations.
The FN P90: A Unique Submachine Gun
The FN P90, manufactured by Fabrique Nationale (FN) Herstal, is a personal defense weapon (PDW) known for its compact size and high-capacity magazine. Unlike traditional submachine guns, the P90 fires a 5.7x28mm cartridge, offering a potent yet manageable round. Key features that make it intriguing for close protection include:
- High Capacity Magazine: The P90's trademark 50-round magazine provides a significant advantage in sustained firefights, crucial in high-stakes situations.
- Compact Design: Its bullpup configuration places the magazine behind the trigger, resulting in a shorter overall length compared to other submachine guns with similar firepower. This makes it highly maneuverable in tight spaces.
- Penetration Capabilities: The 5.7x28mm cartridge offers better penetration than some standard pistol rounds, potentially penetrating light body armor. This is a significant consideration in close protection where threats may utilize rudimentary protective gear.
- Low Recoil: Despite its power, the P90 is known for its relatively low recoil, aiding in accuracy during rapid firing.
Speculation on Secret Service Usage
While the Secret Service doesn't publicly detail its specific firearm inventory, the P90's characteristics suggest possible applications within their operations:
- Close Protection Details: In crowded environments, the P90's compact size and maneuverability could be advantageous. Its high-capacity magazine allows agents to engage multiple threats without frequent reloads.
- Vehicle Security: The P90 could be ideal for securing vehicles, offering both firepower and compact storage.
- Specialized Units: The Secret Service employs specialized units with unique requirements; the P90 might be part of the equipment used by such units, adapted to specific operational needs.
- Concealed Carry (Less Likely): While possible, the P90's size makes concealed carry less practical than smaller firearms.
Considerations and Limitations
While the FN P90 possesses several advantages, its use by the Secret Service also warrants consideration of limitations:
- Ammunition Availability: The 5.7x28mm cartridge is less common than standard pistol or rifle calibers, potentially affecting logistical considerations.
- Overpenetration: The 5.7x28mm round's penetration capabilities, while advantageous against threats, also raise concerns about collateral damage in densely populated areas.
Conclusion: Unconfirmed but Plausible
The presence of the FN P90 within the Secret Service's arsenal remains largely unconfirmed publicly. However, based on the weapon's features and the operational requirements of close protection detail, its inclusion is plausible and potentially strategic for certain scenarios. Further information would be needed to definitively understand its role and frequency of deployment within the agency. This analysis provides a reasoned exploration based on available public information about the firearm and the typical needs of a protective security detail.
