Clearer military requirements could unlock UGV market growth
Western armies continue to test uncrewed ground vehicles, but wider procurement will depend on turning ambitions for autonomy into defined operational roles and funded requirements.
Singapore Army to fully induct Colt IAR 6940 by end-July
Two IAR 6940E-SGs with standard 30- (back) and 60-round magazines (front). (Photo: Chen Chuanren)
The Singapore Army will upgrade to the Colt Infantry Automatic Rifle (IAR) 6940E-SG to improve urban warfare effectiveness, with features including a Picatinny Rail for modular accessories and advanced night-fighting capabilities.
The Singapore Army will fully equip its active and combat support units with the Colt Infantry Automatic Rifle (IAR) 6940E-SG by end-July 2024, replacing the venerable Ultimax 100 section automatic weapon that has been in service since 1982.
Lt. Col. Chan Wen Kai, head of plans for HQ Singapore 9th Division/Infantry, said the Singapore Army observed the increased prevalence in urban warfare and the need to minimise collateral damage, and therefore set out a campaign in 2021 to replace the Ultimax 100 to allow soldiers to operate in more complex environments.
Elizabeth Tan, programme manager at the Defence Science and
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