Compendium by Armada: Issue 2 - April/May 2012 by Armada International & Asian Military Review

Compendium by

Special Ops & Soldier Small Arms, Sights & Accessories

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Fitted on a sniper rifle the Merlin LR sight offers a two-kilometre detection range under quarter moonlight.

Assault Rifles Looking at a soldier from a platform perspective, key factors are firepower, mobility, protection and C4I. Mobility is affected by the other three elements though weight also plays its distorting role in this department. Firepower is the kinetic winner of the engagement with the enemy while C4I provides the situational awareness and thereby an edge over the enemy. Protection is now being extended from the torso to other parts of the body, particularly as a result of the wounds inflicted by new threats such as roadside bombs. For ease of use, this survey is divided into four sections, namely Assault Rifles, Weapon Sights, Indirect Fire and Vital Peripherals.

Paolo Valpolini

ETHALITY IS one of the major issues and is a combination of situational awareness, firepower, ammunition terminal effect and accurate sighting. So let’s start with the infantryman’s best friend, the assault rifle. Urban warfare has heavily impacted the basic infantryman tool in terms of dimensions, compactness being the choice as evidenced in America when the Green Army shifted from the M16 rifle to the M4

carbine. Reducing dimensions of a nonbullpup rifle means reducing barrel length, which in turn generates a drop in the V0, usually with dire consequences on lethality. Among western armies the M4 with its 356-mm-long barrel remains the benchmark type, although reports from the field have shown some criticism regarding its reliability in sand and dusty environments due to the direct impingement or ‘gas-tube’ system that tends to bring carbon blow-back into the chamber, while the very hot gases used to cycle the weapon generate heat problems. The idea of replacing the M4 was

cancelled in 2006 but has surfaced again, although a mild approach has been adopted known as “Dual Path Strategy”. In other words the US Army intends to continue with the M4 upgrade in a phased approach, but in the mean time carry on with the Individual Carbine (IC) competition – service requirements having been approved in August 2010. The open competition outcome will see the three best performers being awarded indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contracts before limited user experiments by the Army. The winner will then fight against the upgraded M4 for the

Compendium Special Operations 2/2012

A US Army soldier shooting with his M4 carbine. The short barrel of that weapon has commanded the development of new rounds to compensate for the poor penetration capacity of the original M855. (US Army)

final contract. Whether the new weapon or upgraded M4 will completely replace the current carbine is still open to questions as indeed limited funding might call for a mixed solution. What is sure is that the Army intends to buy the Technical Data Package rights in order to run a production competition to obtain the best possible manufacturing price. The M4 improvement phased approach includes the acquisition of 25,000 M4A1 carbines featuring the ambidextrous fire control assemblies and that of 65,000 kits to convert M4s into M4A1s, those numbers depending on budgets. The A1 adopts a heavier barrel and is fully automatic while the original M4 fires in semi-auto and three-round-burst modes. Phase II will see

The malfunctions due to the M4 direct impingement system started a dual path process that might lead to the acquisition of new weapons and to the upgrade of current ones. (US Army)

the adoption of a new forward rail, bolts and bolt carrier assemblies, aiming at improving durability and increasing accessory integration. Phase III will look into an alternative to the current gas impingement system. Under Socom pressure Heckler & Koch (HK) developed an M4 derivative, the HK416, fitted with a proprietary gas system derived from that used in the G36 assault rifle. Here a short-stroke piston drives the operating rod that controls the bolt, first suppressing propellant gases and carbon fouling from coming in contact with the bolt, and secondly reducing heat transfer to the bolt and bolt carrier. Available with four different barrel lengths (264 mm, 368 mm, 419 mm and 505 mm), a

A picture of the Individual Carbine version of Heckler & Koch’s HK416. No further details were given on that version of the weapon. (Heckler & Koch)

Heckler & Koch M27 IAR adopted by the US Marine Corps as a replacement for the M249 Saw. (Heckler Koch)

Compendium Special Operations 2/2012

first batch of 500 HK416s was acquired by the Special Operations Command for its Operational Detachment Delta. Numerous special forces units worldwide have adopted the HK weapon, which obtained its first success in a “green army” in Norway where a first order for 8200 rifles was filed in 2007. HK also provides the upper receiver module to be installed on lower receivers for upgrading existing M4/M16. The HK416 is amongst the competitors running for the Army IC. No details were provided by HK USA, which only refers to considerable improvements (the only picture released shows an M4 type stock and a different pistol grip). The HK416 was selected by the US Marine Corps for a totally different role. Equipped with the 16.5-inch barrel cum M16-style flash hider and a series of accessories it won the M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle (IAR) bid that looked for a magazine-fed weapon to replace the M249 Saw light machine gun, a derivative of the Minimi. The IAR includes Knight’s Armament 600-metre micro/backup iron sights and Trijicon’s Acog 3.5 x 35 Squad Automatic Weapon Day Optic. A low-rate initial production order for 500 rifles was signed in early 2010, with deliveries completed by November that same year. Following operational trials in the first half of 2011, September that year saw the M27 IAR being given the green light for full-rate production. Each Marine squad will field three M27s, one per four-man team, for a total of over 4000 such rifles which, fully loaded, weigh less than half a Saw. Back to the US Army carbine, Colt itself developed an upgraded version of the M4

ASSAULT RIFLES/CARBINES IN 5.56 X 45 MM Manufacturer

Colt

Heckler & Koch HK416 (14.5”)

Model

M16A4

M-4

APC / P0923

Mode

3 rds burst

Semi-auto/Auto

Length extended

1000.3 mm

838 mm

Length stock folded/retracted

n.a.

757 mm

Barrel length

Heckler & Koch

Remington

Remington RGP (14.5”)

M27 IAR

ACR (14.5”)

Semi-auto/Auto

900 mm

953 mm

829-902 mm

863 mm

757 mm

804 mm

851 mm

654 mm

777 mm

368 mm

420 mm

368 mm

1 in 7

508 mm

356 mm

Barrel twist

1 in 7

Rate of fire

700-950 rpm

850 rpm

700-900 rpm

650-700 rpm

Magazine

30 rounds

20/30 rounds

30 rounds

3.26 kg

2.77 kg

3.18 kg

3.49 kg

3.70 kg **

3.57 kg *

3.15 kg *

Weight

* Without magazine; ** Weapon only, without magazine and accessories

known as P0923 or Advanced Piston Carbine, which adopts the Articulating Link Piston operating system that reduces stresses in the piston strike. The weapon fires in semi-auto and automatic modes and maintains the same metrics as the M4 with a weight increase of about 400 grams. Remington is following both paths of the US Army approach, providing an upgrade to the existing M16/M4 type weapons as well as a newly developed weapon. The upgrade comes in the form of the RGP, for Remington Gas Piston, which can be provided either as a new weapon or as a drop-in kit for existing carbines. The new upper receiver is built around a mid-length gas-piston operating system that allows firing in unsuppressed and suppressed modes without the need for a gas regulator. The kit comes with cold hammer-forged 10.5inch or 14.5-inch barrels in medium or heavy profile, which can be changed in less than five minutes. The free-floating handguard is provided with cable routing guides and removable Picatinny rails. The RGP is proposed by the company as the upgrade solution for Phase III of the M4 upgrade. A different solution is proposed in the IC bid, the Adaptive Combat Rifle (ACR) being a new weapon based on a development carried out by Magpul Industries that entered a licensing agreement with Bushmaster, a sister company to Remington Arms part of the Freedom group. The ACR is a fully modular system that can be quickly converted from 5.56 mm to 6.8 mm calibre in less than two minutes; barrel, stocks and accessories being also interchangeable allowing to tailor the weapon to the mission. Fully ambidextrous,

Compendium Special Operations 2/2012

it adopts a gas piston operating system, a non-reciprocating bolt handle and a freefloating handguard rail system. Three barrels are available for both calibres, respectively 10.5, 14.5 and 16.5 inches long. According to recent information, Remington developed an advanced and lighter version of its ACR and this is the model proposed for the Army IC bid. With experience gleaned with the Socom’s 7.62-mm Scar, FN Herstal is facing the IC bid with its Scar Mk 16 5.56 mm. The standard version seems best in line with the IC requirements, with its 14-inch barrel, A Remington Adaptive Combat Rifle equipped with suppressor. Fully ambidextrous, it can be equipped with barrels of three different lengths. (Remington)

with a ten-inch barrel available for close quarter combat while the LB version features an 18-inch barrel that considerably increases accuracy. Also based on a shortstroke gas piston system, its gas regulator allows maintaining a constant rate of fire when using a sound suppressor. Adcor Defense proposes another M4 based weapon, the Brown Enhanced Automatic Rifle. Also known as the Bear, it features a gas-driven piston that is located in the upper half of the forward rail system. It thus never touches the barrel, making it a free-floating barrel, which increases accuracy. To further avoid the entry of sand and dust in the weapon a dust shield is mounted directly on the bolt carrier. Many other American producers of ARtype weapons were to have submitted their proposals before the 27 October 2011 deadline. Knights Armament, Land Warfare Resources, Stag Arms, Ruger, all have in their catalogues upgraded versions of AR15 rifles and carbines. Not many details have emerged about the international participation to that bid. According to the latest information provided by the US Army test firing will run through 2012 and lead to shortlisting in early 2013, followed by an evaluation phase with soldier feedback. The winner will emerge after a best-value assessment, while the decision to go for an M-4A1 replacement will be based on cost-benefit analysis, which does not exclude a hybrid solution keeping in service the current weapon while fielding the new carbine. I ELSEWHERE

The US Army is not the only service that is

Knights Armamentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s M110 Semi-Automatic Sniper System was selected by the US Army as its new designated marksman weapon. (US Army)

looking at new weapons. Italy is fielding the Beretta ARX160, France should soon launch a competition for a new assault rifle for its troops, although timing is still unclear. Czech units started receiving the new CZ 805 Bren A1 in late 2011. The production contract for 8000 5.56 x 45 mm rifles was assigned to Ceska Zbrojovka in early 2010. A typical modular weapon, it can be quickly transformed into a 7.62 x 39 mm rifle by changing the barrel, bolt and gas tube, the development of a 6.8 x 43 mm Remington version being also possible. Gas operated with a rotating bolt, the new Czech rifle can be transformed into a carbine adopting the 277mm-long barrel, while a longer barrel might soon be available to transform it into a designated marksman rifle. It might well be among the many competitors for the Indian bid, the Delhi Ministry of Defence having issued on 18 November an RfP to 43 weapon

manufacturers, with proposal deadline set at mid-February 2012. At stake are 66,000 rifles in 5.56 mm calibre that must be able to quickly convert in 7.62 x 39 mm, to replace the Indian-made Insas 5.56 mm rifle. In late 2010 the army already issued a tender for nearly 45,000 CQB carbines. This should lead to massive acquisitions, the overall need being for around 400,000 carbines and over two million assault rifles. The requests include a transfer of technology to allow local production of the weapons. The Indian bid will be platform-centric (the rifle being a the heart of the system) to guarantee maximum efficiency in the mechanical coupling between the weapon and the accessories in all operational conditions. Weapon manufacturers are thus asked to provide a whole package that will include ammunition, sighting systems and accessories. It is worth remembering here that in the

early 2000 India acquired over 3000 Tavor 21 assault rifles from Israel Weapon Industries. These are in service with its Army special forces units, and a further contract for 10,000 such rifles has been placed for paramilitary special forces units. Beretta Defence Technologies, with ARX-160 research and development effort under its belt, is proposing the modular rifle to many countries. It was designed based on five functional sub-assemblies, namely low receiver, barrel, bolt assembly, case and magazine. Beretta does not wish to expand on customisation for the US Individual Carbine bid but confirms its participation. The Italian company also developed a customised version aimed at the French contract, and is working on the package to be proposed to India, the 7.62 x 39-mm being ready. Beretta is also working hard on the 7.62 x 51-mm calibre weapon, which will be even more modular and quickly transformable into a marksman rifle, an assault rifle or a carbine. It will be fully multi-calibre, and the first prototypes in the base calibre are soon expected. To be able to answer complex requirements involving complete packages Beretta is heavily investing in the acquisition of companies operating in collateral fields. The Indian bid is not the only one requiring the capability to fire 7.62 x 39 mm rounds. Many manufacturers are thus including in their portfolios new rifles capable to fulfil that requirement. One year ago, Sig Sauer introduced its SIG556 Russian, based on the proven SIG556 design but able to fire AK-47 rounds. It features a 16-inch barrel with four grooves and a 1 in 9.5 inches rifling and accepts AK magazines. Based on a gas piston mechanism with two-position valve and rotating bolt adjustment, it weighs 3.17

kg without magazine and is 911 mm long (660 mm with the polymer stock folded). Besides the well known 550 series which builds on the proven Swiss Army rifle adopted in 1990 and known as the Sturmgewehr 90, Sig Sauer markets the 516/716 AR rifles respectively in 5.56 x 45 mm and 7.62 x 51 mm calibres. One company not tanking part in the American bid is Steyr Mannlicher, whose Aug assault rifle evolved considerably. The A3 model answers the needs for modularity, with a long Picatinny rail at 12 o’clock and two more on the barrel sleeve and one more on the receiver. A bolt-catch system was implemented while an AR15-like magazine release was developed for those used to that Originally part of the Italian “Soldato Futuro” programme, the Beretta ARX-160 rifle is now being acquired “off-programme” and is already distributed to other units operating in Afghanistan. (Armada/PV)

A Beretta ARX-160 assault rifle equipped with the GLX-160 40-mm underbarrel grenade launcher. Beretta is answering numerous bids for new rifles such as the IC in the United States, and in India. (Armada/PV)

system, which is retrofittable to existing rifles. In late January Thales and Steyr Mannlicher signed an agreement, the two companies having decided to offer the improvements introduced in the Australian Army F88A2 rifle to the rest of the world. I AMMUNITION

Waiting for developments in new calibres or types of rounds, producers remain linked to mass production of current standardised ammo. The US Army uses yearly 1.6 million 5.56-mm rounds for training and combat and owns some 1.1 million rifles between M16 and M4 models. It is understandable why the first move was thus to develop a

more effective round in that calibre. The Soldier Battlefield Effectiveness paper published in August 2011 by the US Army PEO Soldier contains some interesting statements about the new M855A1 Enhanced Performance Round (EPR). According to Lt. Col. Jeffery Woods, PEO Ammo, Picatinny Arsenal, “After testing and measuring combat performance, the Army concluded that only one general-purpose round was more effective than the current 5.56 mm M855 to defeat the wide range of targets faced by soldiers and that’s the new the M855A1 Enhanced Performance Round.” Produced by ATK, the new round maintains the same metrics as the M855 with a 62-grain bullet weight but with considerable changes in configuration. The penetrator is now made in a harder steel with an arrow head, is twice as heavy as the former and is fully exposed as it extends beyond the copper jacket, the latter being now “reverse drawn” and formed from the back of the

ASSAULT RIFLES/CARBINES IN 5.56 X 45 MM Manufacturer

LWRC Int.

ADCOR B.E.A.R. (14.5”)

Model

M6A1-S (14.7”)

CZ 805 BREN A1

Mode

Semi-auto/Auto

Semi-auto/2 rds burst/auto

Length extended

856-932 mm

915 mm

Length stock folded/retracted

n.a. 373 mm

Barrel length

FN Herstal

Sig Sauer

Steyr Mannlicher

SCAR Mk16

SIG516

AUG A3

Semi-auto/Auto

883 mm

826-889 mm

885 mm

745 mm

670 mm

787 mm

635 mm

805 mm

n.a.

360 mm

368 mm

356 mm

368 mm

455 mm

1 in 7

Barrel twist

1 in 7

Rate of fire

700-900 rpm

625 rpm

750-800 rpm

680-750 rpm

Magazine

30 rounds

20/30 rounds

30 rounds

30-42 rounds

Weight

3.27 kg *

3.27 *

3.15 kg *

3.9 kg

* Without magazine

Compendium Special Operations 2/2012

3.58 kg

3.11 kg

bullet up to the penetrator; the original lead slug was replaced by a copper slug. The WC-844 propellant powder was replaced by the SMP-842; this provides a reduced flash and contains a de-coppering agent for longer barrel life. However the most important effect is the muzzle velocity increase, although the difference from the 949 metre/sec of the M855 remains classified as well as the increased chamber pressure. This affects significantly the terminal ballistic performances, the new round delivering “improved hard-target penetration, more consistent performance against soft targets and a significantly extended range of these desired effects along its trajectory”, according to Lt. Col. Woods. The M855A1 can I BRITAIN: WEAPONS ON DIET penetrate a 9.5-mm With weight being an ever-critical issue, Cranfield University was mild steel plate at over asked by the Ministry of Defence to carry out an aggressive study 350 metres, compared to reduce the current 70-kg soldier load to a mere 25. A first to 160 metres with the target was to reduce the weight of weapon and ammunition by M855. Army Research 50 % without losing effectiveness. The final report was handed over to the Ministry in March 2011. Stellite barrels for generalLaboratory tests against purpose machine guns should allow weight cutting, better heat hard targets within the dissipation, wear and degradation reduction at high temperatures effective range of the and therefore allow to removal of the second barrel. Britain is M4/M16 weapon also looking at the Lsat programme (see picture). General Dynamics OTS corrosion-resistant steel cases allow saving about four grams per 7.62-mm round and an estimated two grams per 5.56-mm round, while plastic links developed by Ares save 2.25 grams per 7.62-mm link. As for the SA80 assault rifle, weight saving could come from alternative materials for the rifle “skin” while finite element analysis has identified possible weight saving areas. Titanium steel rods save 90 grams per rod, while carbon nylon for upper receiver and trigger mechanism housing also reduce weight. A new underbarrel grenade launcher interface saves another 430 grams. Two weapons were completed in early 2011, the Mk 1 and the Mk 1A and were submitted to a three-day testing at the Infantry Trials and Development Unit. The Mk 1 prototype is 461 grams lighter than the 5.29-kg SA80A2 with Picatinny, downgrip and Elcan, while the Mk 1A weighs 872 grams less than the 5.5-kg SA80A2 in “theatre entry” configuration with HK AG36 UBGL.

Although not participating in the US IC bid, Steyr Mannlicher is continuing with the development of its Aug, here in the A3 Special Forces configuration. (Steyr Mannlicher)

systems demonstrated that the M855A1 outperformed the 7.62-mm M80 ball round, which does not have a steel penetrator. This means that the new 5.56 mm round penetrates some types of body armour designed to stop the 7.62 mm ball.

The Lsat machine gun (see box herewith) being tested. The latest version of the weapon weighs only 4.18 kg without ammunition. (US Army)

Performances obviously depend on the kinetic energy, which, in turn, is influenced by the barrel length. The above-mentioned figures against the mild steel plate are for the M4, the M16 providing respectively 385 and 240 metres, while against a concrete masonry unit, an obstacle that the M855 won’t penetrate, the EPR overcomes it at 41 metres when fired from an M4 and at 97 metres when an M16 is used. The M855A1 provides consistent performance against soft targets too, regardless of yaw angle or

I LOW WEIGHT AND NEW AMMO FOR

US SMALL ARMS Launched in FY04 the US Army’s Lightweight Small Arms Technologies (Lsat) programme aimed at delivering a new family of lightweight, scalable and affordable weapons and ammunition. AAI was chosen to lead the programme, with Textron putting together a team that includes Ares, ATK, Battelle, Cubic, MSC Software, St. Marks Powder and Veritay Technology. The first target was to reduce the weight of the M249 Saw from 17.4 kg to 10.8 kg. Two types of ammunition were considered, the cased telescoped (CT) and caseless telescoped (CL) seen here in belted form. The CT adopts a full polymer cartridge and ensures up to 40 % weight and twelve per cent volume savings over standard 5.56 rounds. The CL has the advantage of no case ejection, weight being reduced by half and volume by 40 % (see bar graph). The AAI team developed CT and CL ammo based on the M855 bullet. A gas-operated light machine gun using CT rounds with a rotating chamber that improves reliability thanks to the in-line feed and ejection mechanism; a long-stroke, soft-recoil system improves controllability enhancing accuracy. Three designs weighing 4.52, 4.45 and 4.18 kg were produced and tested. The latter, featuring semi-automatic and automatic firing modes, was fired at the Manoeuvre Battle Laboratory in Fort Benning in a three-week Military Utility Assessment in September 2011. Eight weapons were used to spend over 25,000 rounds. The LMG was also submitted with success to TRL7 testing. In 2008 an Lsat Caseless LMG was tested using “Spiral 2” ammunition (an effort is underway to reduce the propellant material cost and to improve the fabrication process). Further CL weapon tests are pending completion of a revised “Spiral 3” ammunition design. The carbine, which was first test-fired in mid 2010, has an M4 look although it is 100 mm shorter, the new ammunition design allowing for a 42-round magazine. A second operating mechanism was demonstrated in mid-2011,

Compendium Special Operations 2/2012

but due to the IC programme the army is focusing on the LMG. A first equipped unit with the new LMG is foreseen for FY16. As for the ammo, integration tests of M855A1 bullets in the CT cartridge are complete and TRL7 testing is pending. CT technology might soon be applied to 7.62 mm and 12.7 mm calibres, AAI having conducted preliminary packaging studies for those calibres as well as for the .338 LM.

I HANDGUNS: LAST-DITCH DEFENCE In the military, with the exception of special forces, handguns are considered last-ditch defence weapons. However, growing involvement in urban combat is giving semi-automatic pistols greater importance than in Cold War days. While in the US discussions about the replacement of the current M9 pistol, the Beretta 92F in 9 x 19 mm calibre, are a never-ending story, the only major handgun replacement bid is underway in Britain, where a requirement for a substitute of the venerable Browning HP was issued in 2010 with some general constraints such as weight and calibre, the often criticised 9 x 19 mm Nato calibre being that of choice. A series of steps have already been fulfilled, such as technology and functionality evaluation and company qualification, the major world handgun producers having submitted their proposals as well as specimens of their pistols that are currently being tested in the harshest conditions, from Greenland to Australia. At stake are 27,000 handguns and 35,000 holsters, the latter being required to be a multiple platform that can be worn on the belt, chest, shoulder and can be detached to be placed i.e. in a vehicle. Handgun choice is awaited within 2012.

The M855A1 Enhanced Performance Round was developed to improve the performance of the M4, the short barrel of which had reduced the effectiveness of the standard M855 round. (ATK)

whether in close quarters or longer-range engagements. As for accuracy at 600 metres, 95 % of the rounds fall into a 20 x 20 cm square. M855A1 good points are not only limited to the terminal effects and precision; the elimination of the lead slug also reduced the environmental impact, the new round being advertised by ATK as the “Green Bullet”. The M855A1 has also been cleared for use with the M100 Grenade Rifle Entry Munition and with the M249 Saw. The first shipment to Afghanistan was made in June 2010, and in October that same year the US Army ordered nearly 300 million EPRs from ATK. The tracer round, the M856A1, based on the same bullet solution, has recently passed all design reviews and is currently undergoing validation tests. Low-rate production should start in mid-2012.

The M855A1 nearly cancelled performance differences between the 5.56 mm and the 7.62 mm rounds, the former sometimes exceeding the latter. According to Lt. Col. Henthorn, small arms division chief, U.S. Army Manoeuvre Center of Excellence, Fort Benning, “Once the EPR updates get incorporated into the 7.62-mm round there will be another significant jump in performance that we will be able to put into the soldier’s hands”. The bigger calibre round completed preliminary design reviews and, upon design completion ATK looks an initial production start in late 2012. M855 criticism did not come only from the Army. The US Marine Corps was also unsatisfied with its performance in Afghanistan, especially when fired from the M4. Instead of following the Army path, the Corps decided to adopt a round developed for the Socom to be used in the Scar carbine,

DMRS IN 5.56 MM CALIBRE Manufacturer

Produced by ATK, these M855A1 rounds have considerably increased 5.56 mm weapon effectiveness. They have recently been cleared for use in the M249 Saw. (ATK)

Compendium Special Operations 2/2012

Model Mode Length extended Length stock folded Barrel length Barrel twist Grooves Flutes Trigger pull Muzzle brake Effective range Magazine Weight

Sig Sauer

Remington

SIG516 Precision Marksman Semi-auto 915 mm n.a. 457 mm 1 in 7 6 No 24 N Yes

SIG556 DMR Semi-auto 1,041 mm n.a. 533 mm 1 in 10 6 No 25 N No

ACR (16.5”) Auto/Semi-auto 879-953 mm 705 mm 419 mm 1 in 7

10 – 20 – 30 rounds 3.65 kg *

10 rounds 5.44 kg *

* without magazine; ** loaded with optics

No 28 N Yes

?? kg

DMRS IN 7.62 MM CALIBRE Sig Sauer

Sig Sauer

McMillan

LMT

Heckler & Koch

ArmaLite

Model

Manufacturer

SIG716 Precision Marksman

SIG751

M1A

M3A

MWS

G28

AR-10 DMC

Mode

Semi-auto

Auto/Semi-auto

Semi-auto

Length extended

1,000 mm

960/870 mm

n.a.

883-959 mm

913-993 mm

927-1,010 mm

n.a.

921/831 mm

n.a.

508 mm

570/455 mm

457 mm

406 mm

419 mm

457 mm

1 in 11

1 in 11.25

1 in 12

1 in 10

Yes

24 N

35 N

22.3-26.7 N

20 N

28 N

17.8-22.2 N

Yes

800 m

600-800 m

Length stock folded Barrel length Barrel twist Grooves Flutes Trigger pull Muzzle brake

Effective range Magazine Weight

10 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 20 rounds

20 rounds

10 rounds

20 rounds

10-20 rounds

6-15 rounds

4.8 kg *

3.63 kg *

n.a.

4.49 kg

7.89 kg ***

4.42 kg

* without magazine; ** complete; *** fully loaded with optics

which was capable of defeating a threat behind a barrier such as a windshield or a car door. Developed by Federal Cartridge, an ATK company, from law enforcement projectiles, the front part that defeats the barrier is

made of lead and has an open tip while the rear penetrator is solid copper. The munition was developed in 5.56 x 45 mm, the Mk 318 Mod 0 with a 62-grain bullet, and in 7.62 x 51 mm, the Mk 319 Mod 0 with a 130-grain bullet, optimised respectively

for the 14-inch barrel of the Scar Mk 16 and for the 16-inch one of the Mk 17. The 892-metre/sec muzzle velocity is identical for the two calibres fired in the respective weapons and remains constant even when fired in weapons with longer

The 5.56-mm Horizon round developed by Ruag ensures good penetration at long distances with less than half the cost of an AP round. (Ruag)

M855A1 PERFORMANCE VS. M855â&#x20AC;&#x2122; M855A1 SOFT TARGET BARRIERS

M855

Consistent Effects Car Window Car Door 9.5 mm mild steel Concrete Masonry Unit Soft Body Armour (24 layer Kevlar)

ACCURACY

Wind Drift Ranging Error MOA Dispersion Trajectory Match with M856 (Tracer)

PROPELLANT

YES

barrels, while the Mk 319 V0 is reduced to 828 metre/sec when fired from the 13-inch barrel of the Mk 17 CQC. Propellant was designed for short-barrel use, ensuring minimal muzzle flash and barrel wear. Accuracy is under 2 MOA at 600 metres. The US Marine Corps filed a first contract for a couple million rounds in September 2009, around 200,000 rounds having reached Afghanistan in January 2010. The decision to acquire the Mk 318 fully matching M855 external ballistics does not mean that the Corps will not join the Army in adopting the M855A1 EPR in due time, a decision that will take into count not only performance but also environmental and cost considerations. In Europe the driver for new ammunition in 5.56 x 45 mm was the requirement by a Nato country for an LMG round with better penetration capability than the SS109 but with a lesser cost than an armour piercing (AP) round. Ruag Ammotec of Switzerland thus developed the LF HC+ SX Horizon, which was in the very final testing phase in late December 2011. While maintaining a 62-grain bullet, two thirds of its weight is due to the hardened steel core that is backed with a brass shoe. The round maintains the tumbling characteristics of the SS109. The effect in wax is similar, but has much better penetration in hard targets. Tests proved that the new round could penetrate a sevenmm-thick 350Hb steel plate at 300 metres

Compendium Special Operations 2/2012

Velocity Temperature Coefficient Flash Suppression MEDIUM

and a ten-mm mild steel plate at 600. Designed for barrels with a 1 in 7 inches twist, the HC+ also showed considerable accuracy, with standard deviation of 25 to 35 mm at 300 metres compared with 45 to 55 mm for an SS109 fired from a 480-mm-long barrel. Ruag Ammotec uses a proprietary powder that ensures a stable muzzle velocity of 930 metre/sec: less than five per cent spread was measured over more than 7000 rounds. The new powder ensures minimal muzzle flash, additives reduce barrel wear and smoke residue build-up while the

adoption of a Ruag Sintox non-corrosive primer increases barrel life and reduce life cycle cost. Ruag Ammotec aims at selling its LF HC+ SX Horizon at a price between half and one third of that of an AP round and roughly 60 % more than standard ammunition. The new round, which is totally green and thus also considerably reduces environmental issues, should be available in the first quarter 2012. I DESIGNATED MARKSMAN RIFLES

While the sniper role remains a dedicated

The Heckler & Koch G28 adopted by the Bundeswehr is the militarised version of the MR308. (Heckler & Koch)

business carried out by specifically trained soldiers using mostly bolt action weapons, the designated marksman (DM) is called in to engage targets at short-to-medium ranges, usually with a semi-automatic weapon derived from a standard rifle sporting a 14.5 to 16.5-inch barrel and an optical sight of limited magnification ensuring a good accuracy (usually 1.5 minute of angle at 800 or 1000 metres). Some DM weapons maintain, however, a full auto firing capability while others have longer barrels. In September 2011, the German Bundeswehr chose as its new DM rifle the Heckler & Koch G28. This semi-automatic 7.62 x 51-mm rifle is the militarised version of the MR308 sport weapon, heavily derived from the HK416/417 series (it maintains around 75 % commonality with the 7.62-mm version of the assault rifle/carbine family). Gas-operated with short-stroke piston and pusher rod, it is fitted with a 16.5-inch heavy barrel that provides 1.5 MOA accuracy at 600 metres. The stock can be

The HK G28 fires in semi-automatic mode only and features a tunable buttstock similar to those adopted on sniper rifles. (Heckler & Koch)

Equipped with the Schmidt & Bender PMII 3-20 x 50 sight the G28 is the perfect weapon for a designated marksman. (Heckler & Koch)

adjusted over a length of 80 mm, while 10- or 20-round magazines are available. The freefloating HK rail system allows the installation of multiple accessories on four Picatinny rails. The Schmidt & Bender PMII 3-20 x 50 telescopic sight can be complemented by an image intensifier such as the Qioptiq Merlin-LR or by a thermal sight like the L-3 Insight CNVD-T3 uncooled clip-on system. A Rheinmetall LLM01 laser module is also installed. If the mission does not require shooting at ranges over 600 meters, a lighter telescope is proposed as option in the form of the Schmidt & Bender PMII 1-8x24 sight. The G28 is also available in patrol version with a shorter receiver, a simpler stock, and without forward handle and bipod, cutting weight by 1.6 kg. FN Herstal introduced the Scar-H PR (the last two letters standing for “Precision Rifle”), which can be considered an export version of the 20-inch barrel Scar Mk 20 Mod 0 Sniper Support Rifle adopted by US Socom and for which production was approved in late 2010 with first deliveries achieved in early 2011.

Compared to the Scar-H 7.62 x 51 mm rifle it features a 20-inch heavy floating barrel, a 120 mm longer receiver and a different two-stage with a 2.5 to 3-kg pull trigger. A foldable stock was adopted for easier carrying and vehicle access/egress. The Scar-H PR flash hider is designed to allow the adoption of a suppressor. The sight of choice is the Schmidt & Bender 3-12 x 50 PM II telescope with FN stating that with this sight the rifle achieves 1.5 MOA accuracy. In late 2011, FN said that a first contract for its new DM rifle, which has been tested by numerous potential users, was imminent. While the British Army adopted the Accuracy International AWM .338 LM as its new sniper rifle – or L115A3 in British Service – the service also decided to replace its Accuracy International L96 7.62-mm bolt action rifle for the sharpshooter role. In Afghanistan the need emerged for infantry squads and platoons to have a semi-automatic 7.62-mm weapon to engage enemy machine guns. The idea was to deploy one such weapon per infantry section. In December 2009 the British chose the

With a 20-inch barrel the Scar H PR, for Precision Rifle, is FN Herstal’s proposal in the 7.62-mm designated marksman rifle niche. (FNH)

Compendium Special Operations 2/2012

DMRS IN 7.62 MM CALIBRE NSWC Crane Div.

USMC

Knights Armament

FN Herstal

Remington

Model

Manufacturer

Mk14 EBR

M39 EMR

M110

SCAR-H PR

R11 RSASS

Mode

Semi-auto

Length extended

889 mm

1,120 mm

1,190-1,200 mm

1,011-1,070 mm

1,003 mm

n.a.

816 mm

n.a.

457 mm

560 mm

508 mm

457 – 559 mm

Length stock folded Barrel length Barrel twist

1 in 10

Grooves Flutes

Yes

Trigger pull

15.7-22.6 N

Muzzle brake Effective range

> 800 m

800-1,000 m

Magazine Weight

5.1 kg

7.5 kg **

7.0 kg

10 – 20 rounds

19 rounds

4.5 kg *

7.14 kg **

* without magazine; ** complete; *** fully loaded with optics

.308 Modular Weapon System developed and produced by America-based LMT Defense (Lewis Machine and Tool). The UOR contract was worth over $ 2.5 million and included 440 rifles, with an overall need

exceeding 1000 weapons. The British Army L129A1 “Sharpshooter” is an AR15 derivative with a direct gas impingement equipped with a 16-inch, 1 in 11.25 inches rifling stainless steel flat matte

blackened barrel. Fully ambidextrous, it features a two-position selector and twostage trigger group, while the Monolithic Rail Platform hosts the upper receiver and surrounds the free-floating barrel. This

solution allows the optics to remain in place while the barrel is being replaced. The British Army adopted the Trijicon Acog 6 x 48 already in service on machine guns of the same calibre, a Trijicon RMR (Ruggedized Miniature Reflex) being often added over the optical sight for closequarter battle. The L129A1 stock, grip and rail covers are all in coyote tan. The LMT weapon also won the bid for New Zealand’s designated marksman rifle requirement, but features a 20-inch barrel while the sight is a Leupold Mark 4 4.5-14 x 50 LR/T M1. For close combat, Dueck Defense Rapid

Dueck Defense developed the Rapid Transition Sight, an M4/M16-line back-up sight mounted at 45°offset that allows to quickly shift from a long range scope to a short range iron sight. (Dueck)

Compendium Special Operations 2/2012

The British Army L129A1 7.62 mm new designated marksman rifle is a derivative of the LMT .308 Modular Weapon System. (Armada/PV)

Transition Sight iron sights angled at 45° have been adopted. A number of these have already been deployed to Afghanistan. In America the addition of a marksman to a squad or platoon has been under discussion for years. At the turn of the century the Marine Corps decided to introduce the Squad Advanced Marksman (Sam) with the Army 3rd Infantry Division looking in the same direction shortly after. Modified versions of the M16A4 rifle were adopted as well as derivatives of the 7.62 x 51 mm M14, the M39 Enhanced Marksman Rifle for the Marines and the Mk 14 Enhanced Battle Rifle for the Army. The M14EBR-RI is issued to units deployed in Afghanistan, each squad having two in its armoury. Initially developed for

US Navy special forces with an 18-inch barrel, the EBR-RI produced by Tacom has a 22-inch (560 mm) barrel with a new flash hider, a lightweight stock and is equipped with a Leupold Mk 4 3.5-10 scope, ammunition being hosted in 20-round magazines. The M39 EMR also features a 22-inch barrel and is equipped with the M8541 Scout-Sniper Day Scope (Schmidt & Bender 3-12 x 50 PMII LP). In the Us Marine Corps it will soon be replaced by a new semi-automatic rifle of similar calibre, the M110 Sass (SemiAutomatic Sniper System) developed by the Army to be used as the spotter’s weapon of choice in the two-man sniper team. A derivative of the SR-25 7.62 x 51 mm semiautomatic weapon manufactured by Knight Armaments, it is fully ambidextrous and fires M118LR 118-grain rounds at 784 metre/sec from 10- or 20-round magazines. Army M110s are equipped with a Leupold Mk 4 3.5-10 x 40 mm scope mounted on the Upper Receiver Extending (URX) fore end (which features an integral folding front sight), to achieve an underone-MOA accuracy at a range of over 800 metres. The Marine Corps, which acquired over 800 M110s, went for another scope in the form of Premier Reticles Heritage 3-15 x 50 (another difference being that the Marines use only 20-rounds magazines). The M110 is currently in service and deployed downrange by the Army, which started fielding it in Iraq in 2008. Remington and JP Entreprises joined

The M14 Enhanced Battle Rifle has been issued to the units deployed to Afghanistan, each squad having two of them. (US Army)

their efforts to develop the R11 Rsass (Remington Semi-Automatic Sniper System) with the aim of producing a sub-MOA semiauto rifle in 7.62 mm calibre. Based on JP Entreprisesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; LPR07 receiver, it can be equipped with 18- or 22-inch barrels. The rifle features a fully adjustable Magpul PSR stock and a Leupold Mark 4 6.5-20 x 50 mm. The R11 Rsass is equipped with a Harris LMS bipod. The base rifle weighs 5.44 kg, ancillaries adding 1.7 kg to the weapon. Beside the various versions of the M14 numerous other DM rifles have been developed in the United States in the recent past. Armalite is proposing its AR-10 DMC (Designated Marksman Carbine) in 7.62 mm calibre from fitted with a Broughton 18inch 5C Custom stainless steel free-floating barrel. A Smith Vortex flash suppressor is added together with a Magpul CTR collapsible stock that allows an 83-mm travel. The two-stage trigger and an adequate scope (Armalite does not provide optics and mounts), ensure an accuracy of 1 MOA. Using experience gained with the MFS14 folding stock developed for special forces units that wanted to be able to shorten their M14s during transport, McMillan developed a modernised version of the M1A Springfield semi-automatic rifle (a civilian version of the M14) which is now equipped with a short upper Picatinny rail. Another version, the M3A is however equipped with a fixed McMillan stock and features a much longer Picatinny that can host various types of scopes. Those weapons might well be used as DM rifles considering their accuracy and calibre. Sig Sauer is proposing various DMR versions of its rifles both in 5.56 and 7.62 mm calibres. The Sig516 with the 18-inch heavy freefloating barrel, two-stage trigger and fixed buttstock is known as Precision Marksman. An AR rifle based on an advanced shortstroke pushrod gas system, it works only in

Compendium Special Operations 2/2012

semi-automatic mode and its long upper Picatinny can host a series of scopes and night attachments while flip-up back-up iron sights are installed. The threaded barrel cap allows installing muzzle brakes/flash hiders or suppressors. Its limited weight is among its advantages over more dedicated weapons in the same calibre, such as the Sig556 DMR. The latter can be equipped with two different cold hammer forged heavy contour barrels, 21or 18-inch barrels respectively with 1 in 10 and 1 in 8 inches rifling. Built around a full-length gas piston operating rod system with a two-position adjustable gas valve, the Sig556 DMR features a rotating bolt and is equipped with a two-stage trigger and a fully adjustable Magpul PRS buttstock. The short barrel version has a weight of 4.31 kg without its 20-round magazine and is 46 mm shorter overall, and is thus better suited for DM duty, especially in urban terrain. In the larger-calibre range the Sig Sauer catalogue features the Sig716 Precision

Thanks to its long upper Picatinny rail the McMillan M3A can accept most scopes and night vision attachments. (McMillan)

The Remington Semi-Automatic Sniper System, or Rsass, was proposed for the US Army EBR replacement programme. (Remington)

Marksman. This is the 7.62-mm version of the AR series with a 20-inch free-floating barrel, but otherwise pretty similar to the Sig516 PM. The same applies to the Sig751, a 550 series on steroids, the standard version of which works in automatic, burst and semi-automatic modes (but which can be supplied with only semi-auto function). The rifle is available with 18- and 20.5-inch barrels, other options including an adjustable buttstock and a handguard with accessory quad rail. The demand for DMRs started to appear in 2009 and Sig Sauer has already provided its 7.62-mm rifles to two customers.

The Meprolight M5 is a perfect option for close-quarter battle situations.

Weapon Sights With the widespread adoption of optical sights for standard assault rifles and carbines, the trend is to fit those weapons with various forms of back-up iron sights. Some are fixed while others are of the flip-up type and the resultant compatibility between optical and iron sights is often matter for conjecture, but solutions have been found.

OR EXAMPLE, Dueck Defense has developed the Rapid Transition Sight (RTS), which replicates the standard M4/M16 iron sight design while adopting a 45째 offset. The RTS is made in aluminium and is mounted directly on the Picatinny rail, rising only five mm over the rail thanks to its low profile. The sights can be mounted either on the right or left and feature _ MOA elevation and windage adjustments. The RTS adds a mere 129 grams to the rifle, and according to Dueck

Defense the shooter can learn to use the new sights within minutes. Besides ensuring full availability of a back-up in any condition, the RTS is well suited for short-range shooting even if a magnifying scope is fitted. It was adopted by New Zealand for its new designated marksman rifle and is in service with other undisclosed countries. In early 2012, Carl Zeiss Optronics introduced a number of new and upgraded sights for marksman and sniper use. The ZO 6 x 36 is compact and lightweight (174 mm in

length for 697 grams) and its 5.3째 field of view enables the shooter to survey an ample portion of terrain without moving the rifle. Being short it allows the addition of a clipon night attachment, even on standard Picatinny rails. It features an illuminated reticle with six daytime and three nighttime brightness levels, and can be provided with a customer-chosen reticle. Lessons learned in the field led Carl Zeiss Optronics to modify its ZF 4-16 x 56 telescope and the new ZF 4-16 x 56 TL features locking elevation and azimuth turrets, settings being adjustable only after lifting turret caps to avoid unintentional modifications. An entirely new sight is the ZF 3.5-26 x 56 FF; its minimum magnification provides for short-to-medium-range use, though at x26 magnification the target can be identified with maximum reliability. With a length of 370 mm and a weight of 1300 grams, it features a red illuminated reticle powered by a CR123A battery. Carl Zeiss also developed the 1.77-kg Spotter 45 with a 15 to 45 magnification range offering a FoV between 49 and 19 metres at 1000 metres. Three new products have entered the

Compendium Special Operations 2/2012

The Carl Zeiss Optronics Spotter 45 is the latest addition to the Spotter family; its magnification varies from x15 to x45. (Carl Zeiss Optronics)

Leupold military line in early 2012. Two of them belong to an entirely new family, in which the Mark 6 is built around a rugged, dependable six-times erector system. The Mark 6 1-6 x 20 mm has a 35.3 to 6.4-metre field of view at 100 metres, is 262 mm long and weights 482 grams. It features most of the typical Leupold scopes characteristics (low profile, Mil-based Zerolock windage and elevation adjustments with available bullet drop compensation options) and a new selection of calibre-specific, front focal plane reticles to complement the timeproven tactical military reticles. The second product is the Mark 6 3-18 x 44 mm M5B2, which at only 305 mm and 669 grams, is some 20% smaller and lighter than similar rifle scopes. The sight is similar but adds an auto-locking adjustment that provides 20 Mils of elevation travel in two revolutions of the dial, allowing engagements beyond 1500 metres with no inadvertent

A light x6 sight, the new ZO 6 x 36 from Carl Zeiss Optronics ensures good accuracy at medium range. (Carl Zeiss Optronics)

zeroing alteration. The same auto-locking adjustments, taken from the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mark 8 1.1-8 x 24 CQBSS, have also been transferred onto the Mark 8 3.5-25 x 56 mm M5B2. Its field of view is of 10.8 to 1.6 metres at 100 metres, higher than most scopes of similar magnification, providing quick target acquisition and high target discretion at long range. A 3rd generation, seven-position illumination control allows operators to match the reticle illumination to the ambient light conditions or night vision devices. The most recent addition to the Trijicon catalogue is the SRS (Sealed Reflex Sight). This x1 sight adopts a new optical design and its aluminium casing, only 97 mm long, eliminates the typical â&#x20AC;&#x153;tube effectâ&#x20AC;? of standard red-dot sights, ensuring maximum situational awareness at short distances. It has a field of view of 23 metres at 100 metres with a 100-mm eye relief and features a 1.75 MOA dot with ten brightness settings (three for NVG, six for daylight use and one super bright for extremely sunny days). In daylight use a photovoltaic cell helps save the battery (a single AA ensuring continuous

The ZF 4-16 x 56 sight, here mounted on an assault rifle, is a good compromise for medium- to long-range shooting. (Carl Zeiss Optronics)

A perfectly well suited sight for designated marksmen, this Carl Zeiss Optronics ZF 3.5 - 26 x 56 FF is here seen mounted on an assault rifle. (Carl Zeiss Optronics)

Compendium Special Operations 2/2012

The Aimpoint system of systems approach showed again its appeal in recent contracts for the Norwegian Army. (Aimpoint)

operation for more than three years). The STS is waterproof to 50 metres, weighs 310 grams with battery, or 390 grams with battery and mount. Trijicon also added a new member to its Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight (Acog)

family, the 4 x 32 Battery Acog. It provides the soldier with six levels of reticle intensity, but obviously comes with a weight penalty at 514 grams with the single AA battery (over 12,000 hours on setting n.4) and the TA51 mount. Aimpoint of Sweden, whose sights are in

use in most Nato countries, has introduced a 2 MOA red dot version of its Micro T-1. The 4 MOA version of this miniaturised sight was introduced in 2009, but the development of the new version was launched that same year following the requirements voiced by some special forces requiring a smaller red dot reticule. Aimpoint invested heavily in new technologies to introduce a 2 MOA emitter in the existing sight and managed to maintain the characteristics of the existing Micro T-1 with a length of 62 mm and a weight of only 84 grams (105 grams with the integrated mount). The company system-of-systems philosophy proved again successful in late 2011 when Norway placed two major contracts. In October a first order for 2000 CompM4 sights, an equivalent number of 3xMag magnifiers and 10,000 Micro T-1 4 MOA was signed, followed in January 2012 by a second order for 12,000 CompM4s and 3000 3xMags, adding to the approximately

At the Shot Show 2012 Leupold introduced its new Mk 6 series. This is the 1-6 magnification sight providing good short- and medium-range sighting. (Leupold)

The longer-range member of the Mk 6 family is the 3-18 magnification sight that weighs less than 670 grams. (Leupold)

40,000 sights already delivered to the Norwegian Army. Following its customers’ “lessons learned”, Meprolight of Israel (part of the SK group) has introduced three new sights. The M5 is a 280-gram red-dot sight with a rapid target acquisition display. Powered by a single AA battery providing over 8000 operating hours, the M5 2 MOA red-dot has four settings, one for NVGs and three for daylight, plus the off position. Users of the Meprolight NOA x7 uncooled thermal sniper sight had voiced the need for a dual magnification sight that would maintain the same maximum magnification, but that offered a wider field of view for better situational awareness in the surveillance phase. This led to the NOA Dual-Field sniper sight that provides 10.2° and 3.4° FoVs at x3 and x7 positions (with x2 or x4 electronic zoom). Another recent addition is the NOA Nyx, a x2 optic with a 15.6° field of view that also features a x4 digital zoom. With its optical magnification it ensures detection at 900 metres and

identification at 350. The NOA Nyx uses the same computer as the thermal sniper sights, but hosts three instead of five ballistic tables. Pictures can be captured and transferred via serial output. The Nyx has the same continuous operation time as the other NOA series sights but with only four AA batteries and weighs less than a kilo without batteries. Meprolight confirms that the Nyx has already been acquired by two countries but declines to provide more information. In early 2012 Inteco, another SK Group company, officially launched the Mini Hunter. Based on an 18-mm Gen II or Gen III tube, this x2 image intensification sight has an 18° FoV and weighs only 390 grams sans adaptor, cover and battery (an AA that provides 40 hours operation at 20°C or twelve hours at 0 to -30°C). In 2011 Qioptiq introduced a new line of clip-on image intensifiers and extended its portfolio in the thermal sight field. The Merlin family of II systems includes three models optimised for assault rifles,

Trijicon’s latest development, the Sealed Reflex Sight, eliminates the “tube effect” of standard red-dot sights. (Trijicon)

The Trijicon Acog 4 x 32 was recently developed in a battery-powered version that provides numerous light settings to match varying light conditions. (Trijicon)

Compendium Special Operations 2/2012

The wide field of view of the new Leupold Mk 8 3.5-25 x 56 ensures good acquisition and targeting capabilities. (Leupold)

designated marksman rifles and sniper rifles. They are all based on the Photonis 18-mm XR5 II auto-gated image intensifier, but the Short Range (SR) and Medium Range (MR) versions are powered by a single AA Lithium battery providing over 40 hours of continuous operation at 20°C, while the Long Range (LR) version is powered by two Alkaline AA batteries that ensure over 90 hours continuous operation. All Merlin sights can be attached via a quick-release mount onto a Picatinny rail and be installed and removed without rezeroing the weapon, boresight alignment being less than 0.5 MOA. The Merlin SR and MR have a clear starlight detection range on a man of 730 and 836 metres respectively, and 1590 and 1780 metres with moonlight. The field of view varies from 17° for the SR to 13° for the MR, while respective weights sans batteries is less than 820 and 1060 grams. The LR version weighs 1450 grams, has a 2040-metre detection range with quarter moonlight and 2940 metres with full moonlight, with a 9° field of view. Still with Qioptiq, but on the thermal theme, the Dragon SR, MR and S (for Sniper) sights join the LR and C (for Compact) launched in 2010. The latter is particularly suited for carbines and assault rifles as it weighs only 390 grams sans batteries and weapon mount, and ensures a detection range of 910 metres, which increases to 1070 metres using the x2 electronic zoom. The LR, aimed at designated marksmen, can detect a man at 2750 metres with the standard x.2.7 magnification and at nearly 3 km with the x5.4 optical magnification

The NOA Nyx x2 developed by Meprolight of Israel provides thermal imaging capabilities for a weight of under one kilogram. (Meprolight)

Meprolight’s new sights include (from top to bottom) the reflex 2MOA red dot M5, the x2 compact image intensification Mini-Hunter and the thermal imaging NOA Dual Field. (Meprolight)

(and even slightly more when adding the x2 electronic zoom). At 1075 grams, the Dragon LR is powered by six AA Lithium batteries that provide over eight hours of continuous operation, while the C uses only two such batteries that provide over five hours operation. The three new Dragons are all powered by four AA Lithium batteries providing over eight hours of continuous operation and have respectively 8° (SR) and 5.9° (MR and S) horizontal fields of view. Detection ranges increase from the 2300

In 2011 Qioptiq launched the Merlin family of image intensification clip-on night sights, which includes, from left to right, the long-range LR, the medium-range MR and the short-range SR . (Qioptiq)

Qioptiq’s Dragon family of thermal imaging sights includes five different versions, short, medium, long range, compact and, seen here, the Sniper. (Qioptiq)

Compendium Special Operations 2/2012

metres for the SR (2390 with zoom) to 2740 metres for the MR (3120 with zoom), the Sniper model having the same range of the MR. Weights without batteries range from 730 to 930 grams. All models but the LR have an 8-12 µm 320 x 240 pixel uncooled sensor, the Long Range having a 640 x 480-pixel sensor. All Dragons feature an RS232 communications port, a video output and can be linked to an external power source. Both the Merlin and the Dragon sights have generated much interest worldwide and are currently being assessed, evaluated and trialled by Nato and non-Nato forces. Some contracts have already been signed although no details were available from Qioptiq due to non-disclosure agreements. L-3 EOTech introduced two new holographic hybrid sight kits based on two of its holographic red-dot sights, the

Thanks to its reduced dimensions and weight (under 400 grams) the four-kilometre PLRF25C rangefinder recently introduced by Vectronix is attracting considerable interest. (Vectronix)

night vision compatible EXPS3-4 and noncompatible EXPS2-2. Both weigh 317 grams and have a x1 magnification, but the former has a four-dot reticle calibrated for 300, 400, 500 and 600 metre ranges, while the latter has a two-dot reticle for fast target acquisition. These two sights are combined with the new G33 magnifier with an eye relief of 56 mm and a field of view of 7.2°. The G33 features the new Quick Switch to Side Mount that allows twisting the magnifier on the side for short-range shots, while quickly putting it back into

position for longer-range shots. Vectronix of Switzerland, part of the Safran group, unveiled its Nitespot MR, the medium-range version of the company clip-on image intensifier devices for designated marksman or sniper support rifles. The 270-mm-long MR is a typical clip-on device with no optical offset providing a 7° field of view with no magnification. Gain and focus controls are carried out manually by remote control. The 900-gram the system will be available with Photonis XR5 or Onyx tubes, although Gen III tubes can be used on request. It is powered by a CR123A battery but can also work with a 1.5 V AA battery. The sight is equipped with a universal surface that can be fitted with different types of rail grabbers, while at 9, 12 and 3 o’clock the sight features integrated interfaces for up to three accessory rails. Vectronix also recently introduced other

At Milipol 2011 in Paris Vectronix showed the new medium-range Nitespot MR image intensification clip-on sight, here seen installed on a Sako TRG rifle. (Vectronix)

The L-3_Eotech G33 x3.25 magnifier (left) is smaller and has a wider field of view compared to its predecessor, the G23. The HHS2 suite combines an L-3 EOTech EXPS red dot sight with the G33 magnifier, the latter being equipped with a system that allows it to be quickly emplaced in front of the sight or flipped to the side depending on the requirement of the moment. (L-3 EOTech)

equipment for snipers, marksmen and forward observers. One of those is the PLRF25C, a 500-gram rangefinder based on a 1550-nm laser with a measuring range of over 4000 metres with an accuracy of ±2 metres (2.5 km on a Nato target). Considered the smallest and most powerful Milspec laser rangefinder on the market, its single CR123 battery ensures a minimum of 3000 measurements, all operations being carried out using a single button.

Also known as the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Punisherâ&#x20AC;?, the XM-25 fires 25 mm air burst grenades that proved their effectiveness in-theatre against insurgents hiding behind obstacles.

Indirect Fire Indirect fire support at squad level is always a critical point given the weight soldiers have to carry. In addition to kinetic rounds, indirect fire systems allow soldiers to create smoke screens or to illuminate the battlefield. Underbarrel grenade launchers and 40-mm low-velocity grenades are the standard indirect fire weapons of the fire team, however, other types of systems are emerging that increase range and terminal effects.

N THE 40-mm category of grenades, medium-velocity/increased-range (MV) rounds allow to improve range, accuracy and lethality, but MV air burst types will further increasing lethality against targets behind cover. Grenade producers have followed two different approaches in the development of these weapons, namely by increasing the muzzle velocity of lowvelocity rounds or by decreasing that of

Compendium Special Operations 2/2012

high-velocity types (the latter having a heavier payload thus a greater lethal effect). MV grenades, with a V0 slightly over 100 metre/sec, will have an impact on grenade launchers. The higher impact of MV grenades makes it impossible to use them from stand-alone systems as these are too light, but with underbarrel configurations the impulse is lowered by the intrinsic combined weight of the rifle and launcher. What has to

be checked is the resistance of the coupling between the rifle and the launcher itself. Following those considerations Rheinmetall Weapons and Munitions has developed two dedicated MV round launchers that remain compatible with lowvelocity rounds. The single-shot Cerberus can be used either as a stand-alone or as an underbarrel launcher, at respective weights of 2.8 kg and 2.1 kg. The key element is the recoil damping system that reduces the impulse on the shooterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shoulder in the stand-alone mode and on the Picatinny rail in underbarrel configuration. The 350 x 240 x 60 mm launcher, which can use up to 123mm-long rounds thanks to its rotating breech, will soon enter pre-production phase. The second development is the Hydra multi-round launcher, which can fire in semi-automatic and three-round bursts, automatic mode being available on request. The hydraulic breech was tested in late 2011 and 2012 should see the Hydra coming up as a prototype. Various magazines are available: linear ones are produced in three, six and nine round versions, while a double

The Cerberus single-shot 40-mm grenade launcher is being developed by Rheinmetall for its medium-velocity rounds and is equipped with a recoil absorbing system. (Armada/PV)

stack magazine with two per five round capacity and a rotary one with nine rounds are also being developed. The Hydra reloading system automatically adapts to the type of ammunition being used as the weapon can fire both LV and MV grenades. Its dimensions are 850 x 240 x 60 mm and

its weight unloaded is about four kilos. Both the Cerberus and the Hydra will also be able to fire air burst munitions, which are in an advanced development stage. Steyr Mannlicher is developing its own 40-mm system, but based on a 180-mmlong barrel that can quickly be replaced with

Rheinmetall has launched the development of the Hydra multi-round grenade launcher optimised for the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 40-mm MV grenades, here shown with the nine-round linear magazine. (Armada/PV)

I FIELD TESTING FOR THE XM-25 Known as the Counter Defilade Target Engagement weapon system and renamed Individual Semiautomatic Air Burst System, ATK’s XM-25 has become one of the favourite weapons used in Afghanistan, although only five such systems are currently deployed downrange. Developed with Heckler & Koch USA and L-3 Communications Brashear (the latter being responsible for the fire control system), the XM-25 “Punisher” (as unofficially called by soldiers that use it in Afghanistan) employs 25-mm HEAB (High Explosive Air Burst) grenades. Fuses are set by the FCS to explode over the enemy position, which allows engaging enemies behind an obstacle. The sight features a day optic channel, a thermal channel, a laser pointer/illuminator and a laser rangefinder, the latter being the key element to establish the target distance because this is transformed into the number of spiral rotations the grenade will have to achieve before the fuse triggers the detonation. HEAB grenades can be used also in point detonation mode. Apart from HEAB, only training rounds are currently available, but ATK is in the last stages of development of armour-piercing ammunition. The XM-25 point target range is about 500 metres, while that for area targets is around 50% further. The Punisher is 749 mm long and weighs 5.67 kg with unloaded four-round magazine. Its performance was strongly appreciated by soldiers as it gives higher probability of effect compared with traditional weapons. Forward Operational Assessment ended in January 2011, and the two units that had the chance to deploy the XM-25 fired in total 55 rounds in anger while many more rounds were fired for training purposes. Proposed improvements include greater range (up to 1000 metres), and possibly weight reduction. The US Army raised $ 24.7 million in November 2011for the production of 36 more weapons (the equivalent of a battalion’s worth considering two XM-25 per squad), already incorporating some of the suggested modifications, and 10,000 HE and 5000 practice rounds. Deliveries are expected in late 2012 for downrange deployment in the first half of 2013. In March 2011 ATK received $ 65.8 million from the US Army's PEO Soldier for the Engineering and Manufacturing Development phase. By the end of this contract, in early 2014, the design should be frozen to allow mass production. Depending on force structure evolution, the Army might buy between 10,000 and 12,500 Punishers as of 2014.

Mithras illumination rounds fired at a recent Rheinmetall demonstration. IR Illum and smoke versions are also available. (Armada/EHB)

a 38 or 42-mm calibre type and enable to fire less than lethal rounds. Working in doubleaction mode only, it can be attached through a Picatinny rail or using its own very-lowprofile quick-mount system that reduces the distance between the two barrels and thereby the parallax effect. Steyr Mannlicher is refining its launcher and plans to start production in early 2012, in time for the Austrian Army tender for 140 pieces. The launcher is 270 mm long and can also be had as a stand-alone system. Respective weights are 1.02 and 2.18 kg, the stand-alone length with stock extended being 640 mm. I DO YOU HAVE A LIGHT?

Hand-held rocket launchers are often used for illumination or smoke screening, and some companies recently developed new systems. In 2011, Chemring introduced the latest evolution of its Multiple Effects Rocket System, or Mers, with ranges of 300, 500 and 600 metres. The latest extended-range MersER, however, stretches out to 1000 metres. It is in final development and qualification phase and will be available in late 2012. The rockets incorporate a three-stage safety, requiring the operator to first turn the twist initiator clockwise from the Safe to Armed position, pull it to Fire position and

Compendium Special Operations 2/2012

only then the twist initiation can be activated, either clockwise or counter clockwise (the system is fully ambidextrous). The 300-metre range illumination rockets are 260 mm long with a 47-mm diameter, weigh some 550 grams and reach a maximum altitude of 200 metres when fired at 45Â°. It provides 200,000 Candela for up to 30 seconds; the IR-Illum version burns for more than 30 seconds. While a 600-metre range was available, a lighter 500-metre version was developed following a specific customerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reduced-weight requirement (less than 470 grams both in the Illumination and IR-Illum versions, but same length). The 1000-metre type is 340 mm long and weighs approximately 600 grams. A new smokeless propellant was introduced with two benefits: it does not generate a smoke trail that can be used by the enemy to trace back the firing position and increases the rocket speed and thus stability and accuracy. Current payloads include smoke screening, 200,000 Candela white light illumination and IR illumination. Following qualification in 2010, 2011 saw Rheinmetall starting production of its Mithras modular rocket system with ranges of 300, 600 and 1000 metres. Mithras rockets

(above) Originally a French product, the Fly-K light mortar systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s license has been acquired by Rheinmetall, which plans product upgrades. One of them is this new digital clinometer (left), which will improve accuracy and will make it more user-friendly. (Armada/PV)

are waterproof down to two metres and can be equipped with payloads for various effects, such as white or IR illumination, signalling, screening smoke, radar chaff or radar tracking. All rockets adopt the same twist ignition mechanism that guarantees maximum safety against accidental ignition, to Stanag 4497. To fire the rocket the operator must keep both hands on the system to ensure maximum accuracy. The rockets come in the form of 350-mm long, 40-mm calibre tubes with weight ranging from 500 to 800 grams depending on range and payload type. Maximum altitude is about 250 metres, while burning time of illuminating or smoke payloads varies between 20 and 40 seconds. The launch customer was the British Army, which carried out a tough qualification process including vibration tests for helicopter transport, and then adopted the IR Illum and Smoke versions. It was followed by Canada (with deliveries to start in early 2012) and by Thailand. Denmark also selected the Mithras and a contract is expected in 2012. Thailand adopted among others a multiplestar signalling warhead (many other types are being developed). Another product from the Rheinmetall portfolio is the Fly-K, a light launcher the round of which provides effects that are close

The launch customer for the Rheinmetall Mithras hand-launched rockets is the British Army, soon followed by numerous other countries. (Armada/PV)

Compendium Special Operations 2/2012

With the most recent developments of its AUG Steyr Mannlicher overcame the limitations of the original rifle in terms of sights and accessories capacity. Steyr Mannlicher

to those of light mortars, but at considerable weight savings. The system is not new, as years ago it was produced by a French company, rights having been acquired by Rheinmetall in December 2006. A M4 Mk1 60-mm Commando mortar with eight bombs weighs over 21 kg. Although it has a more limited range (currently 650 metres versus 1500 for most 60-mm mortar rounds fired from comparable length barrel), the 612-mm-long Fly-K weighs only 4.7 kg and its HE round 780 grams (the heavier among operational rounds), meaning that over 20 rounds can be carried within the 21-kg limit, or, for a same number of rounds the Fly-K system will add less than eleven kilos to the patrol burden. Another major advantage of the Fly-K is its flashless and almost soundless operation that reduces its chances of being spotted. When the round is dropped in the tube its rear part engages a spigot, acting on the manual firing system, which ensures that the soldier keeps

both hands on the tube for maximum accuracy, the operator ignites the launch charge that accelerates the round up to its muzzle velocity of around 97 metre/sec. That gas remains within the bomb rear propulsion section as it pushes backwards a piston that seals the gas in the bomb when this leaves the launch tube, thus considerably reducing the sound and flash signature. According to Rheinmetall, the launch of a Fly-K bomb generates 52 dB against 80 dB for a 40-mm low-velocity round and 100dB for a 60-mm bomb. Five round types are available, HE (M101), smoke (M105), illuminating (M106), IR-illuminating (M116) and target practice (M108). The HE round has a lethal range of 16 metres and generates 580 fragments, while illuminating rounds provide their effect for over 25 seconds at a range of 550 metres and a height of 190. A clinometer attached to the launcher is used for range aiming, with a 0.3% accuracy in range and 0.16% in azimuth according the company. A digital clinometer is being introduced that automatically provides the range on a three-digit screen. It will be available by late 2012. New developments in ammunition are also in the pipeline. Extendedrange ammunition has already been tested, reaching nearly 1000 metres, however Rheinmetall is carefully looking at safety, resistance and system wear aspects. A decision about the production of a new range of ammunition or that of a new longer system has still to be taken and will depend on customer interest. The availability of the digital clinometer will certainly help, as this can work with more than one ballistic table. Rheinmetall has just qualified its first batch of production TP, IR Illum, WP and HE rounds, which have been accepted by the French Army. A French Army Special Forces officer explained to the author that the Fly-K had been used in Afghanistan and Ivory Coast with very positive results. Rheinmetall considers the Fly-K as a niche system mostly aimed at Special Forces and light infantry. Besides the French Special Forces and the French Army infantry units, the only other Fly-K customer is the United Arab Emirates Special Forces. A modular, multi-spike launcher is also proposed by Rheinmetall for base protection. Known as the Protector, it is able to launch up to twelve rounds in 2.2 seconds.

Vital Peripherals While accurate aiming is of paramount importance when responding to a threat, that threat and its particular origin are often difficult to pick in an open environment. Manageable acoustic detectors have now come of age, and see-through-wall devices no longer are sci-fi film props.

URNING FIRST to acoustic detectors, Raytheon BBN Technologiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Boomerang Warrior-X is being extensively employed downrange with good results. A new entry in individual acoustic sensors will be introduced at Eurosatory in June, where 01dB Metravib of France will unveil the production version of its Pilarw Weapon Mounted System (WMS) acoustic gunshot

The latest version of 01dB Metravibâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pilar acoustic detection system, the rifle-mounted W, provides direct cueing towards the source of fire.

detection system. The WMS is the miniaturised version of the Pilar, a tetrahedral microphone suite that has been miniaturised and installed in a mushroomlike dome where the lower part houses the

processing unit, the display and the two eight-hour endurance AA batteries. The algorithms used for the soldier version are the same as vehicular version. The company’s choice was to install the sensor directly on the weapon, with the system’s read arrow display indicating to the gunner where to point the gun with a ten per cent accuracy in azimuth and a central green led telling the soldier when he can start using the gun’s sight. The display intensity can be adjusted to ambient lighting, the system being NVG compatible. The Pilarw can be attached to the rifle via a Picatinny rail, does not require a cable and can be mounted either right or left to avoid interference with optical sights. It weighs less that 350 grams and can provide the threat distance with a 15 % accuracy. 01dB Metravib is talking to numerous sight producers with a view to integrating the system’s generated data into the sights. I PEEPING TOMS

BCB International Blast Boxers ensure the protection of groin and inner thigh areas and thereby considerably reduce genital and femoral artery injuries. (Armada/PV)

Compendium Special Operations 2/2012

With the increasing engagement of troops in urban scenarios came a series of new sensors to increase their situational awareness. Sense-through-the-wall devices are starting to be fielded. In 2010 the US Army supplied its troops in Afghanistan with tow versions of Tialinx Eagle 5 radar scanners, one to identify human beings behind walls and the other to unveil tunnels and culverts. The millimetric-wave Eagle5-P capable of identifying a live object moving behind a wall was unveiled in April 2009. Used by the US Army downrange, feedback indicates that soldiers would prefer a single-hand device. Tialinx thus developed the Eagle45-W (wearable) with arm-mounted sense-through-the-wall unit emitting nanosecond wideband pulses that penetrate glass, wood, concrete, dry wall and bricks. The receiver hardware and algorithms build a depth-from-sensor image based on the effective strength of the received signals from a target. Commands are reduced to four keys, the image being projected on a featherweight highresolution display integrated within a pair of glasses or goggles. The sensor weighs 3.2 kg with batteries. In 2010 PEO Soldier placed two multimillion dollar contracts with Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems and L-3 Communications Cyterra for the production of 30 Sea-Through-The-Wall (STTW) units each for testing purposes. Known as the AN/PPS-26 SSTW, they will

The Xaver 100 developed by Camerotech of Israel is a mono-dimensional lightweight sensor that allows one to sense the presence of a human being behind a wall and to estimate his distance from the sensor. (Armada/PV)

allow the soldier to detect moving or stationary targets behind a non-metallic obstacle. The system should be capable of picking up targets when used against the wall as well as when activated at standoff distance. Development was carried out during FY11, operational testing and Milestone C allowing the production of final prototypes being scheduled for FY12 while FY13 should see the first unit equipped with the AN/PPS-26. Very few details on that programme are available. In Israel, Camero-Tech, part of the SK Group, developed the Xaver family of systems that ranges from the 3-D Xaver 800 through the tactical 2-D Xaver 400 to the hand-held Xaver 100 unveiled in October 2011. The smaller system is 196 x 81 x 50 mm in size and weighs 550 grams including the four AA batteries that ensure three hours operation time. Using

Cyalume is developing a series of items that are not only dedicated to lighting, but also to in-field identification with a view to reducing blue-on-blue accidents. (Armada/PV)

micropower, ultra-wideband pulsed radar signals in the three to ten GHz band it can detect a person behind concrete, plaster, brick or drywall at eight metres with a range resolution of less than 0.15 metres over a 120Â° field of view in azimuth and elevation. A graphic on its colour screen shows a distance axis graduated from 0 to 8 metres with the symbol of a person either static or on the move. I PROTECT!

Issues such as protection and battlefield identification have become of considerable importance. Statistics show that soldiers on foot involved in IED accidents in Afghanistan face increasing double amputations and genital injuries. Besides body armour, which defends the soldierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s torso, other areas of the body absolutely need to be protected, like the groin-inner thigh area where reproduction organs as well as femoral arteries are found. The systems used to counter that risk have nothing to do with usual ballistic groin protection added to body armour. They come in the form of underwear or outside blast boxers, depending on the protection level required. The US Army adopted a British-made system, developed by Cooneen Watts & Stone. This comes in two tiers, a lightweight silk underwear with no fly to maximise protection, and an outside garment with Kevlar inserts to protect the pelvic and inner thigh area. The US Marine Corps adopted the Armorworks Pugs, short for Protective Undergarment. Also without fly, it is made of fire/flame resistant breathable and antimicrobial fabrics based on silk and they look like bicycle shorts. An initial order for 15,000 Tier 1 garments was followed by others, all Marines operating downrange wearing them when operating out of base. Kevlar based Tier 2 garments have also been

This photograph of a Chamerotech Xaver 100 screen shows the presence of a human moving away from the sensor, and it displays the distance. (Armada/PV)

Compendium Special Operations 2/2012

issued, worn only by Marines exposed to specific threats such as IED disposal teams. BCB International in Britain has developed a two-tier system. Tier 1 is provided by Blast Boxers, which according to the company ensure 30% higher protection compared to silk products. They are flame retardant and weigh only 150 grams in medium size. Two types of Tier 2 systems are provided by BCB, Blast Chaps protecting the upper leg and groin area and Blast Breeches that extend below knee. Both solutions feature a waist band that fits outside the body armour and deflects the blast away from the body, Blast Breeches also including an aramid â&#x20AC;&#x153;split strapâ&#x20AC;? that helps reducing hips and pelvic dislocations, another frequent secondary effect of IED explosions. Ear protection is another major issue, various in-ear and out-ear solutions having been adopted, both solutions showing good and bad points. The latest in-ear development by Nacre, a Honeywell company, is the Quietpro 400 that allows controlling up to four different communication devices, providing full jump-on/plug-in transition throughout all mobility platforms. The Quietpro 400 is equipped with a fitcheck system that is run upon ear tip insertion and alerts the soldier if the level of protection is not met. External microphones catch the signal that is processed by the digital noise reduction system that brings down noise to an acceptable level while optimising communications. The soldier can also tune hearing amplification to x5 normal hearing. Powered by a rechargeable Li-Ion 3.7 V cell or by two Lithium CR123

The US Marine Corps selected Armorworks Protective Undergarment to improve the safety of its Marines deployed downrange. (US Marine Corps)

disposable batteries that provide over 60 hours with typical user profile, the QP400 control unit weighs 290 grams while the headset weighs only 36 grams. An even more comfortable headset was introduced in early 2012 while a system that allows inear noise recording should also be available by mid-2012. Honeywell is proposing its Quietpro 400 for the UK Tactical Hearing Protection Programme that should be launched in the current year. The latest development of Peltor, a 3M

company, is the Comtac IV hybrid headset. The new version is based on the Comtac ACH (III) but earmuffs are replaced by earplugs. The inside shape has been redesigned and the cup is shorter and generates less interference with the rifle stock. The ear bud is attached to the frame, thus taking the strain and weight off the ear canal. New earplugs are under development to further increase comfort. Another key issue is battlefield identification. Awaiting the advent of a battlefield IFF, lighting and IR devices are currently used. Cyalume, well known for its visible and IR chemiluminescent sticks, is producing IR-reflectant patches that can be seen some 600 metres away and identified at a range of 100 metres. The company also developed the Cypad, a small pouch with two compartments with a piercing system that puts in contact the two elements generating visible light (in different colours, or in IR spectrum. Cypad Visible and Cypad IR are lighter than Cyalume batons and ensure respectively ten and eight hours of light. A third version, the Cypad Thermal, generates heat up to 45-50°C providing a beacon for thermal imaging systems. Currently Cypad Thermal is made of a pouch containing a chemical to which water must be added to start the reaction, which ensures duration of four to six hours. However Cyalume is working to improve its design and to make its activation much simpler, the production version being awaited for the second half of 2012.

ON THE COVER: A Remington Adaptive Combat Rifle being put through its paces. The rifle is one of the many competitors for the US Army Individual Carbine competition. Fully ambidextrous, it is a modular weapon that can be converted from 5.56 mm to 6.8 mm calibre in less than two minutes.

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