Australia approves LAND 125 Phase 3C
The Australian government has given second pass approval for its LAND 125 Phase 3C – Soldier Enhancement Version 2 – Lethality project.
The development will see the Australian Defence Force (ADF) move ahead with the project to roll out the Enhanced F88/F90 weapon.
The new weapon will improve the ADF’s close combat and general combat capability. The upgraded ergonomics and balance of the rifle, and increased mounting options for ancillary devices, such as optic sights, laser aiming devices and grenade launcher attachments enables personnel to more effectively identify and engage targets with improved precision and discrimination.
Thales Australia began Low Rate Initial Production of the assault rifle under a contract from the Australian Department of Defence in September 2014. The award was part of a de-risking exercise designed to smooth the transition in production from the existing in-service weapon to the F90.
The manufacture and heavy grade repair of the weapon from the company's facility in Lithgow New South Wales is a boon for Australia's small arms manufacturing capability.
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