pops
Leading Aircraftman
Posts: 7 
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Post by pops on Jun 19, 2014 12:06:44 GMT 12
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Post by wazzawiseman on Jul 4, 2014 13:03:42 GMT 12
The New Zealand Defence Force is looking to press thousands of new rifles into service and is launching a tender process for potential bidders. In its sights is a new design to take over from the venerable IW Steyr assault rifles used since 1988.
The IW Steyr is a 5.56mm automatic/semi-automatic rifle with a 1.5x magnification sight, giving it precision firing capability over a short-to-medium range.
It was Jonathan Coleman - New Zealand's Defense Minister - who announced that the search for a Steyr successor had been launched. "It is important NZDF personnel are well equipped and have effective modern rifles suited to today's operational environment", Coleman stated on 18 June. "The Steyr rifle has served the NZDF well for over 20 years and it has seen considerable operational use, but it is now reaching the end of its lifespan. Weapon technology has advanced considerably since the NZDF purchased the Steyr rifle in 1987."
Steyr Rifle: NZDF Service
The Steyr rifle equips all three NZDF services, namely the Royal New Zealand Air Force, Royal New Zealand Navy and New Zealand Army.
It's just part of the New Zealand Defence Force's firepower, alongside the P226 9mm automatic pistol, Beneli M3 Tactical Shotgun, Minimi C9 Light Machine Gun and the L119 105mm Light Gun but, especially after the recent ISWRUP (In-service Weapon Replacement and Upgrade Project) programme, the design's been taken to its natural life span's end.
Steyr Rifles Replacement
The New Zealand Steyr rifles replacement process is one element of a wider upgrade process which should also see hi-tech sniper rifles, pistols and grenade launchers acquired in coming months. According to the New Zealand Ministry of Defence, up to 8,000 rifles plus accessories could be purchased in total, these potentially entering service from 2016 onwards.
"Modern rifles can be adapted to individual needs, maximizing the effectiveness of the weapon", Coleman added. "They can be fitted with a range of advanced day and night sights, and other specialized equipment. NZDF personnel need a rifle that can be optimized for a range of situation
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Post by pepe on Aug 14, 2015 9:52:34 GMT 12
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Post by phil on Aug 14, 2015 16:53:56 GMT 12
Most of the submitted rifles were AR platforms.
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