UMP & USC

Heckler & Koch developed the UMP in the 1990s as a reduced-weight and less expensive alternative to the MP5. The manufacturer utilized polymer construction to decrease production costs and the total number of parts. The design targeted the requirements of United States military and law enforcement agencies, providing a platform for cartridges that were not available for the existing MP5 series. Production of the weapon began in 2000.

The UMP is a blowback-operated submachine gun that fires from a closed bolt. The firearm is constructed predominantly of polymer, which provides resistance to corrosion. It features a side-folding buttstock for storage and a bolt catch that locks the action open after the final round is discharged. The sighting system includes iron sights with an aperture rear and a vertical post front, while Picatinny rails on the receiver and handguard support the attachment of optics, vertical foregrips, and other accessories. The weapon is available in four trigger configurations, including semi-automatic, burst, and fully automatic fire. A modular design allows for conversion between different models by replacing the barrel, bolt, and magazine.

Since entering service in 2000, the UMP has been adopted by various organizations including the U.S. Border Patrol, the Romanian Special Operations Forces, and the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency. U.S. military personnel utilized the weapon during the Iraqi insurgency. Variants include the UMP9, UMP40, and UMP45. The UMP9 is identified by a curved magazine, whereas the UMP40 and UMP45 utilize straight magazines. A semi-automatic civilian version, the USC, was introduced with a thumbhole stock and a longer barrel. While multiple versions were previously available, current production focuses on the UMP9, though parts remain available for other caliber variants. Private firms, including Omega and Tommy Built Tactical, have also developed clones of the platform.