New Zealand downselects new rifle
The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) has selected a replacement rifle for the incumbent 5.56mm Steyr AUG A1 under the Individual Weapon Replacement programme.
The preferred tenderer, according to a Ministry of Defence release in mid-August, is Lewis Machine & Tool (LMT). Shephard understands that the down-selected solution is based on the CQB16 rifle, which is derived from the AR-15. The NZDF is seeking 8,800 rifles.
Shephard understands the NZDF requires modifications to the base CQB16, including the addition of a monolithic rail.
This programme for an off-the-shelf replacement rifle was initiated in May 2014. After an RfP was issued
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