New RS556 assault rifle released
A new modular assault rifle has been jointly developed by Rheinmetall and Steyr Mannlicher called the RS556, Rheinmetall announced on 11 January.
Based on Steyr Mannlicher’s STM556, the 5.56mm x 45 calibre weapon will target the German armed forces’ requirement to replace its G36 assault rifle with a more advanced system from 2019.
The gas-operated RS556 has an adjustable short-stroke gas piston system and rotating bolt, the rifle has a 16" barrel (406mm) and a fully loaded, 30-round magazine. It weighs around 4.2kg (just over 9lbs), and the adjustable-length light-weight stock clicks into seven different positions, allowing operators to adjust the weapon to match individual equipment profile.
The hammer-forged barrel can be easily exchanged enabling the weapon to be quickly modified for various missions.
A number of standard barrel lengths are available (14.5", 16", 18" and 20"), and the RS556 features several standard and optional NATO accessory rails with receiver systems designed in accordance with MIL-STD-1913, STANAG 2324 and STANAG 4694. A 40mm grenade launcher can also be mounted on the rifle.
The RS556 is compatible with Rheinmetall’s modular Future Soldier - Expanded System (IdZ-ES), and can also be connected to other soldier systems.
More from Land Warfare
-
US speeds up Abrams deliveries to Ukraine by switching to M1A1s
The US will deliver Abrams main battle tanks (MBTs) to Ukraine faster than initially planned by switching from providing M1A2s to refurbished M1A1s.
-
Delivering advanced C4I at the tip of the spear (Sponsored)
Digitalising your dismounted troops comes with some key capability requirements for mission success.
-
Greece confirms amphibious assault vehicle plan with FMS request
Greece has moved ahead with plans to acquire a fleet of Assault Amphibious Vehicles from US Marine Corps surplus stocks.
-
Boxers join fight club with start of Australian production
Production of Australian-assembled Boxer 8x8 vehicles has commenced in Queensland, and the possibility even exists of exporting some back to Germany.
-
Beleaguered Ajax programme moves on with new, much later, in-service dates
The UK's Ajax armoured vehicle programme faces further delays, with platforms not entering service until 2025 and full operating capability not until 2028-29, causing concern for the British Army's modernisation plans.
-
Mobility and deception keeping Ukrainian air defence systems intact
Mobility and deception tactics have helped keep Ukrainian air defence systems stay online during Russia's invasion of the country.