Air Force Temporarily Halts Use of M18 Handguns Following Tragic Incident
In response to a tragic incident at F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming, the Air Force has suspended the use of Sig Sauer M18 sidearms. This decision comes amid an ongoing investigation into the unfortunate death of a Security Forces airman on the base.
According to a statement from Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC), the airman, who was an active-duty member of the 90th Security Forces Squadron, passed away while on duty during the early hours of Sunday. Although the airman’s identity and the exact circumstances surrounding their death have not been disclosed, AFGSC has taken immediate action by halting the use of the 9mm Sig Sauer M18 handguns.
AFGSC spokesperson Charles Hoffman explained, “Air Force Global Strike Command has paused use of the M18 Modular Handgun System, effective July 21, 2025, until further notice.” This precautionary measure follows the incident on July 20, 2025, which led to the airman’s death.
The Sig Sauer M18, part of the P320 series, has been under scrutiny due to allegations of unintended discharges. These concerns have been raised by civilians, law enforcement, and military personnel. As a result, AFGSC is conducting a comprehensive inspection of the handguns.
Hoffman added, “Out of an abundance of caution and to ensure the safety and security of our personnel, the pause will remain in place pending the completion of comprehensive investigations by the Air Force Office of Special Investigations and the AFGSC Safety office.”
A memo from Gen. Thomas Bussiere, head of Air Force Global Strike Command, confirmed the decision to replace the M18 with the M4 carbine rifle during the investigation. This memo, dated July 21, was leaked online and verified as authentic by AFGSC.
Concerns about the Sig Sauer M17 and M18 handguns have been ongoing, with incident reports of unintended discharges published by New Hampshire Public Radio last year. An FBI report from August 2024, requested by the Michigan State Police, detailed an incident involving an officer’s M18 that “fired uncommanded” while holstered. The report noted that while the weapon did not independently confirm the discharge, it suggested that such occurrences could be possible under specific conditions.
In March, Sig Sauer addressed these allegations, asserting, “The P320 CANNOT, under any circumstances, discharge without a trigger pull — that is a fact,” according to the news release. The company claims that the allegations are attempts to profit or avoid personal responsibility. Sig Sauer did not respond to Military.com’s request for comment at the time of publication.
While the investigation proceeds, AFGSC is working with the Air Force Security Forces Center and Headquarters Air Force Security Forces to thoroughly review the M18 and identify any necessary corrective actions. “Furthermore, Security Forces combat arms airmen at all AFGSC bases will conduct 100% inspections of the M18 handguns to identify any immediate safety concerns,” Hoffman stated.
