The command responsible for overseeing the U.S. Air Force’s long-range nuclear-capable bombers and intercontinental ballistic missiles has temporarily halted the issuance of Sig Sauer M18 pistols to personnel following a tragic incident that led to the death of a Security Forces airman.
In a statement to Business Insider, AFGSC spokesperson Charles “Moose” Hoffman confirmed this decision, which came after the airman’s death at the base on Sunday morning. Air Force Security Forces members act as military law enforcement, focusing primarily on base protection.
Hoffman mentioned, “Out of an abundance of caution and to ensure the safety and security of our personnel, the pause will remain in effect pending thorough investigations by the Air Force Office of Special Investigations and the AFGSC Safety office.” In the interim, airmen will only carry their rifles.
The statement also indicated that AFGSC is working in partnership with the Air Force Security Forces Center and Headquarters to review the M18 and implement necessary corrective measures. “Security Forces Combat Arms Airmen at all AFGSC bases will perform 100% inspections of the M18 handguns to identify any immediate safety issues,” Hoffman added.
The Air Force has not confirmed whether the airman’s death resulted from a negligent discharge of the pistol, only stating that the incident remains under investigation and has not yet been categorized.
The M18, along with the M17, is a military variant of the P320 platform, which is available in the civilian market as well. This latest incident is part of a larger context of reported safety concerns surrounding the P320-series firearms, which have faced criticism and legal action in recent years.
For instance, Michigan State Police reported issues with the M18 in 2024 when a police officer’s weapon discharged while still holstered. The officer stated that at no point was the trigger intentionally pressed.
Reports have emerged of similar incidents linked to the P320 and its variants, raising substantial alarm. A joint investigation by The Washington Post and The Trace in 2023 revealed over 100 similar discharges, leading to multiple injuries.
Other governmental and law enforcement agencies are reconsidering the use of the Sig Sauer P320, with some even seeking to ban the weapon altogether. However, recent legal changes in New Hampshire have made pursuing lawsuits against the manufacturer more challenging.