On April 1, 2025, the U.S. Department of State approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Ecuador for M4A1 rifles and related support at an estimated value of $64 million. Ecuador has requested to purchase M4A1 rifles along with non-Major Defense Equipment (non-MDE) items, including Magpul PMAG magazines, technical manuals, training, and additional logistical and program support elements. This proposed sale follows Ecuador’s earlier procurement of M4 carbines through a 2008 Foreign Military Sales package.
The M4 carbine, officially designated as the Carbine, Caliber 5.56 mm, M4, was developed in the United States between 1982 and 1993 as a shorter and lighter version of the M16A2 rifle. Its development began with the XM177E2 and XM4 prototypes, which were tested and modified throughout the 1980s. Key design decisions included increased parts commonality with the M16A2 and a 14.5-inch barrel to balance compactness and ballistic performance. The first production contracts were awarded to Colt in the early 1990s, and the M4 entered service in 1994. It was widely fielded across U.S. forces by the early 2000s, including during operations in Kosovo, Iraq, and Afghanistan. The platform replaced the M16A2 in many frontline roles and has since been adopted by over 60 countries.