An assault rifle can’t be more aptly defined than a portable handheld machine which can fire very small projectiles – the bullets – too fast to be snapped only by expensive cameras and so deadly that a half-inch pull of the index finger can split open one’s brain. An invention so revolutionary that it completely replaced the spear throws and horseback adventures in the battlefield to such a unique headline that the consequence of a war can turn upside with one trigger pull even with half a kilometre distance between the enemies. Well then, let’s leave these poetic lines and hop on to a journey of assault rifles from its origin to its next-gen lethality.
Impact of Trench Warfare on Firearm Development
Trench warfare, which characterized much of the fighting during World War I, had a significant impact on firearm development. The static nature of trench warfare and the need for effective weapons to overcome the challenges posed by the trenches led to several key developments in firearms. Here are some ways trench warfare influenced firearm development:
Bolt-Action Rifles: The prevalence of long-range engagements in trench warfare necessitated accurate and reliable rifles. Bolt-action rifles, such as the British Lee-Enfield and the German Mauser 98, were widely used. They offered greater range and accuracy compared to previous firearms, enabling soldiers to engage targets at a distance.
Magazine Capacity: The need for sustained firepower in the trenches prompted the development of rifles with larger magazine capacities. Many nations increased their rifle magazine capacity, allowing soldiers to fire multiple rounds without frequent reloading.
Submachine Guns: Trench warfare highlighted the importance of close-quarter combat. Submachine guns, such as the German MP 18 and the British Sten, were developed to provide soldiers with rapid and effective fire in confined spaces. These compact firearms fired pistol cartridges and were easier to maneuver in tight trench conditions.
Grenades and Grenade Launchers: The use of grenades became essential in trench warfare for clearing enemy positions and defending trenches. This led to advancements in grenade designs and the introduction of rifle-mounted grenade launchers, like the British Mills Bomb and the German Gewehr 98 rifle with a rifle grenade attachment.
Machine Guns: Trenches presented lucrative targets for machine guns. The introduction of heavy, water-cooled machine guns, such as the British Vickers and the German MG 08, allowed defenders to unleash devastating firepower against advancing forces. Lighter and more portable machine guns, like the Lewis Gun and the German MG 08/15, were also developed to provide infantry units with more mobile support.
Gas Warfare: Trench warfare saw the first large-scale use of chemical weapons, particularly poison gas. This necessitated the development of gas masks and protective equipment to counter the effects of these deadly agents.
Trench warfare highlighted the need for firearms that could adapt to the challenges of static, defensive warfare. The developments in rifle technology, magazine capacity, submachine guns, grenades, machine guns, and protective equipment were direct responses to the demands of trench warfare. These advancements not only impacted World War I but also influenced subsequent firearm designs and tactics in future conflicts.
Advent of the AR
Before this revolutionary invention, it was all he big, long, cumbersome guns which had numerous disadvantages. Soldiers needed an upgrade as the previous guns were significantly heavy, had a very slow rate of fire, needed big-rifle ammunition and also lacked in range. With the whole world in turmoil and the frequent ground wars, the World War I came to be the time for the urgent need for such a ground-breaking X-factor. Here comes the name of Hugo Schmeisser, a 20th century German developer of infantry weapons who is credited for the development of Sturmgewehr 44. This name was chosen personally by Nazi leader Adolf Hitler and the Sturgmgewehr 44 or more commonly known as the StG 44 was the first successful assault rifle and later on defined the characteristics for a gun to fall in the assault rifle category. Firing the 4.92x33mm Kurtz cartridge, the StG 44 replaced the big and bulky Karabiner 98k bolt action rifle with a little compromise to range and firepower as the predecessor was basically a sniper rifle but wasn’t fit for all according to average skills of the then soldiers. The rifle’s use increased and many variants such as the MKb 42(H), Kb 42(W), MP43, MP43/1, MP44 etc. came into development and saw a significant use in the two World Wars. As the first assault rifle, the StG 44 was very successful and got into a mass production while its design features and effects were carried on to future generations which are made more particularly evident by Mikhail Kalashnikov’s AK-47 and Eugene Stoner’s M16.
Today if a gun needs to fall in the assault rifle category, it must be capable of selective fire mechanism, have an intermediate cartridge, a detachable magazine system for the feed and an effective engagement distance of at least 250-300m. While numerous rifles fall in this broad spectrum, some iconic ones such as the HK G3, FN FALs etc. although have similar features actually fall in original battle rifles category. Like the Germans, the Soviets were influenced by experience showing most combat happens within 400 meters and that their soldiers were consistently outgunned by heavily armed German troops, especially those armed with the Sturmgewehr 44 assault rifles. With a dire need to replace the aging Mosin Nagant rifles, the Russians developed the 7.62x39mm M43 cartridge, the SKS carbine and the RPK light machine gun and using the research of those inventions, the iconic AK-platform saw the light of the day. Introduced in 1959, the AKM is a lighter stamped steel version and the most ubiquitous variant of the entire AK series of firearms. The M14 was a select-fire battle rifle which was being used by US military who also felt the need of replacing these bulky systems until came the M16.
The Cold War Era
The introduction of the AK-47, designed by Mikhail Kalashnikov, had a profound impact on the Cold War. It became the iconic Soviet assault rifle and was widely adopted by communist nations and insurgent groups worldwide. The AK-47’s reliability, durability, and simplicity of operation made it an ideal weapon for various combat environments. Its low manufacturing cost allowed for mass production, providing the Soviet Union a significant advantage in arming its forces and supporting proxy wars. In response to the AK-47, the United States developed the M16 rifle. Initially, the M16 faced challenges with reliability during the Vietnam War, attributed to design flaws and inadequate ammunition. However, subsequent improvements and adoption of new ammunition led to the development of the M16A1 variant, which became a staple firearm of American forces. The M16 family of rifles demonstrated the United States’ commitment to matching Soviet firepower and influenced subsequent assault rifle designs. The AK and M16 platforms had far-reaching effects beyond the Soviet Union and the United States. The availability of AK rifles through Soviet support led to the widespread adoption of the platform by non-state actors and insurgent groups, shaping conflicts around the world. The influence of the M16 extended through American alliances and military assistance programs, with various nations adopting or producing derivatives of the M16. The Cold War era also witnessed advancements in ammunition technology. The AK-47’s 7.62x39mm round provided robustness and stopping power, while the M16’s 5.56x45mm NATO round emphasized reduced weight and increased ammunition capacity. These contrasting approaches highlighted the trade-off between stopping power and controllability, influencing subsequent assault rifle designs and ammunition choices.
The Fuel of Assault Rifles
Since the Cold War, numerous defence companies have indulged themselves in the firearms businesses – some in specific parts production while some in complete rifle production line. But bullets are the single lifeline of a rifle’s existence and assault rifle development would have been stalled had it not been the development in bullets. Research and development grew in the material selection, bullet ballistics, cartridge development, barrels etc. and so did emerge the classic AR versus AK platform competition. Numerous firms around the globe have ventured into assault rifles production – some of which come in AR-15 platforms, some in the AK platforms, some under the modular AR category etc. but still fall massively under the groups of using the most common and effective ammunition – the Soviet 7.62x39mm and the NATO 5.56x45mm. The AK-47’s 7.62x39mm and NATO’s 5.56x45mm rounds are two distinct calibers that have shaped the landscape of assault rifle ammunition.
Soviet 7.62x39mm
The 7.62x39mm round was developed specifically for the AK-47 by the Soviet Union. It features a bullet diameter of 7.62mm and a case length of 39mm. Key features include:
Stopping Power: The 7.62x39mm round is known for its excellent stopping power due to its larger bullet size and heavier weight. It delivers significant kinetic energy upon impact, making it effective at neutralizing targets.
Penetration: The 7.62x39mm round has good penetration capabilities, enabling it to traverse barriers like walls, doors, and light cover more effectively than smaller caliber rounds.
Recoil and Control: The 7.62x39mm round generates noticeable recoil due to its larger bullet and powder charge. This can make it slightly more challenging to control during rapid-fire or full-auto shooting.
Range and Accuracy: The 7.62x39mm round generally has a shorter effective range compared to smaller caliber rounds. Its trajectory tends to drop more quickly over longer distances, impacting accuracy beyond medium ranges.
NATO’s 5.56x45mm
Lightweight Design: The 5.56x45mm round was designed to be lighter than its predecessor, the 7.62x51mm NATO round. This weight reduction allows soldiers to carry more ammunition without sacrificing lethality.
Velocity and Flat Trajectory: The 5.56x45mm round achieves higher muzzle velocities, providing a flatter trajectory and better accuracy over longer distances. This allows for improved performance at medium ranges.
Fragmentation Effect: The 5.56x45mm round is designed to fragment upon impact, causing additional tissue damage and increasing stopping power. This fragmentation effect enhances its lethality and effectiveness against soft targets.
Recoil and Control: The 5.56x45mm round generates less recoil compared to the 7.62x39mm round, making it more controllable during rapid-fire or full-auto shooting. This allows for better accuracy and ease of handling for the shooter.
Over-Penetration Concerns: The lightweight nature of the 5.56x45mm round can sometimes lead to concerns about over-penetration, especially in urban environments or situations where collateral damage needs to be minimized.
The Astonishing AK Platform
The AK platform, encompassing Mikhail Kalashnikov’s legendary AK-47 and its subsequent variants, has left an indelible mark on assault rifle technology and real-life combat. The AK-47, developed in the late 1940s, was a revolutionary design that combined simplicity, reliability, and robustness. It’s stamped steel construction, selective fire capability, and 7.62x39mm cartridge set new standards for assault rifles. The AK-47’s ability to operate in adverse conditions and withstand abuse proved crucial in combat. The AKM, introduced in the 1950s, replaced the AK-47’s machined receiver with a lighter stamped steel receiver, simplifying production and reducing weight. The AKM’s improved manufacturing processes and enhancements made it even more accessible and popular globally. The AK-74, developed in the 1970s, marked a significant evolution. Chambered in the 5.45x39mm cartridge, it offered reduced recoil and weight, higher ammunition capacity, and increased accuracy. The AK-74’s distinctive muzzle brake and polymer furniture further modernized the platform. The AK platform’s adaptability has resulted in numerous variants tailored to specific roles. Notable examples include the AKS-74U, a compact carbine with a folding stock for special forces and vehicle crews, and the RPK series, which transformed the AK into a squad-level light machine gun.
However comparing with the modern times, these variants do not quite exceed the actual capabilities of the ammunition and also lack the various attachments and accessories support due to their rigid and lacky structure. The newer models of the AK assault rifle series, including the AK-103, AK-204, and AK-12, have had a significant impact on assault rifle technologies, development, and modern warfare. These rifles represent the evolution and refinement of the legendary AK platform, incorporating modern features and advancements to meet the demands of contemporary combat environments. The AK-103, chambered in the ubiquitous 7.62x39mm cartridge, builds upon the AK-47’s legacy with several improvements. It incorporates a reinforced receiver, enhanced ergonomics, and an updated gas system for improved reliability and controllability. The AK-103’s modernization ensures compatibility with various accessories, such as optics, rail systems, and suppressors, allowing for customization and integration into modern combat platforms. With its robust construction and familiarity, the AK-103 continues to find use among military and law enforcement units worldwide, bolstering the AK’s enduring presence in modern warfare. Moving further, the AK-204, introduced in the early 2000s, takes the AK platform into the realm of intermediate cartridges. Chambered in the 5.45x39mm round, the AK-204 offers reduced recoil, increased accuracy, and improved ammunition capacity. It also features a modular design, allowing for easy customization and adaptation to different mission requirements. The AK-204 incorporates an adjustable folding stock, improved sights, and a quad-rail system for accessory attachment. These enhancements provide enhanced versatility, making the AK-204 suitable for a range of combat scenarios, including close-quarters engagements and urban operations. In recent years, the AK-12 has emerged as a flagship model in the AK series, incorporating cutting-edge technology and advancements. Developed as part of the Russian military’s Ratnik infantry combat system, the AK-12 incorporates numerous improvements to enhance performance and ergonomics. It features a standardized Picatinny rail system, allowing for the attachment of various accessories, optics, and night vision equipment. The AK-12’s modernized operating system reduces recoil, improves accuracy, and facilitates controllability, enabling more effective engagement of targets. Additionally, the AK-12 introduces ambidextrous controls, adjustable length of pull, and improved ergonomics for enhanced user comfort and ease of handling.
The Mesmerizing M16 and AR-15 platform
The M16 rifle, first introduced during the Vietnam War, brought several revolutionary advancements to assault rifle technology and warfare. It utilized the 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge, which was lighter and had less recoil than the larger-caliber rounds used in previous rifles. This allowed soldiers to carry more ammunition while maintaining effective firepower. It has a direct impingement gas system, where propellant gases are directed into the action to cycle the bolt. This design reduced moving parts, simplified maintenance, and improved reliability in certain conditions. The success of the M16 in combat, combined with U.S. military support and partnerships, led to its widespread adoption by military forces worldwide. This influenced the standardization of the 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge and shaped the modern landscape of assault rifle technology. It set the stone for the AR-15 based family of guns – a smaller variant of Eugene Stoner’s original invention with relatively smaller parts yet serving the same function as the 20-inch mandatory barrel of the M16 made it longer than it actually needed for desired mobility.
So here comes the next benchmark with the M4 which once again set a rivalry to compete with the AK series. The M4 came about when the U.S. Pentagon began a competition to replace the M16 Rifle with a carbine design using a shorter barrel for close-quarter combat which later on became the standard-issue service rifle for all of the US military and law enforcement units. It has now become one of the most defining firearms of the 21st century with its reliability, combat experience and sustained upgrades and the fact that it has been adopted as a primary service rifle in more than 60 countries apart from the USA. The M4’s shortened barrel and overall compact size made it well-suited for close-quarters combat and urban warfare. Its shorter length and lighter weight improved manoeuvrability, allowing soldiers to navigate tight spaces and engage in confined environments more effectively than with longer rifles.
Since these names have got their full plate dinner in various wars and conflicts, the AR-15 family’s evolution has landed superbly well as more and more technological advancements set to get inked deals. Even the commercial market has seen a huge increase over the years particularly in the USA. The advancements in this sector have become much more transparent and advanced than the AK platform because of the competitive landscape in the western part of the world, society’s handling, a much more advanced combat approach, firearms sports competitions, civilian market demand and of course military and law enforcement deals. And defence firms like FN Herstal, Lewis Machine & Tool Company (LMT), Sig Sauer, Colt Defence LLC, Daniel Defence etc. are spearheading the assault rifle research and development to grab as many international military deals as they can.
Befitting Bullpups
A bullpup assault rifle is a firearm design in which the action and magazine are located behind the trigger, allowing for a shorter overall length while maintaining a full-length barrel. This configuration provides a compact and maneuverable weapon without sacrificing barrel length or accuracy. Bullpup rifles are known for their ergonomic design, as the rearward placement of the action allows for better weight distribution and handling. This type of rifle structure was meant to replace conventional rifle designs but was more an innovative approach to assault rifle development with focus in mobility, handling and increased compactness. The bullpup concept was first tested militarily in 1901 with the British Thorneycroft carbine, but it was not until the Cold War that more successful designs and improvements led to wider adoption. In 1977, the Austrian Army became the first military force in the world to adopt a bullpup rifle, the Steyr AUG, as a principal combat weapon. Although they don’t have anything remarkable feats in leaps and bounds ahead of regular rifles, numerous countries have bullpup assault rifles in their standard issue loadouts. Even in this aspect their lies a long-drawn debate if one should choose the AR-15 or a bullpup rifle. The British Army’s SA80, Israel’s IWI Tavor series which is also the primary weapon for Indian Air Force’s Garud SOFs, Belgium’s FN F2000, China’s Type-95, Springfield Hellion, Desert Tech MDR etc.
Since the primitive proving grounds set by the first Steyr AUG A1 variant and France’s iconic FAMAS rifles, the bullpup category has become a big field today for assault rifles R&D and many defence firms now manufacture these rifle systems for international military contracts. Although they have a consistent history of disappointing triggers quality (applicable for almost all bullpups), they have indeed come a long way in recoil mitigating advancements, ambidextrous controls, handling and their shorter designs with no compromise to barrel lengths and accuracy prove themselves as great choices for urban warfare.
Evolution of Assault Rifle gas operation mechanism
Direct Impingement – In direct impingement systems, the gas is directed through a gas port located near the muzzle into a gas tube. The gas then travels back into the receiver and pushes directly on the bolt carrier, cycling the action. This design simplifies the firearm’s components but can lead to increased fouling and maintenance requirements. The M16 is the biggest combat proven example of this system while also portraying the growing obsoleteness of this mechanism which is now replaced by piston driven systems.
Piston Driven System – Most of today’s assault rifles follow the more efficient long-stroke and short-stroke piston driven systems. The long stroke piston driven system, found in rifles like the AK-47, offers exceptional reliability and durability. The piston is directly attached to the bolt carrier, absorbing gas pressure and heat. This design contributes to the rifle’s legendary reliability, even in adverse conditions. The short stroke piston driven system, utilized in rifles such as the FN SCAR and H&K HK416, enhances reliability by reducing fouling and gas buildup in the action. This system offers improved recoil control, ease of maintenance, and consistent performance, making it a favored choice for demanding environments.
Also Read, Top 5 Deadliest Assault Rifles of 2023
Optics Exceeding the AR Limits
Optics, such as red dot sights, holographic sights, and magnified scopes, have transformed the way soldiers acquire and engage targets, enhancing their accuracy, situational awareness, and overall effectiveness. Firstly, optics have greatly improved target acquisition and engagement speed. By providing a clear aiming point and eliminating the need for aligning iron sights, optics allow soldiers to quickly and accurately engage threats, reducing target acquisition time and increasing lethality. This translates into enhanced operational effectiveness, particularly in dynamic and fast-paced combat environments. Secondly, optics have extended the effective engagement range of assault rifles. Magnified scopes enable soldiers to engage targets at longer distances with greater precision, enhancing their lethality and overall combat effectiveness. This has become increasingly important in modern asymmetric warfare scenarios, where engagements can occur at extended ranges. Additionally, optics have enhanced situational awareness for soldiers. With the incorporation of features like illuminated reticles, ballistic compensation, and night vision compatibility, optics provide soldiers with improved visibility and target identification capabilities in various lighting conditions and environments. This enables better decision-making and reduces the risk of engaging non-combatants or friendly forces. Optics also have facilitated the effective use of specialized ammunition, such as armor-piercing rounds or tracer ammunition. By allowing soldiers to accurately aim and engage specific targets, optics maximize the effectiveness of specialized ammunition, increasing the versatility and combat potential of assault rifles.
Notably the advancements have been carried forward by certain firms which absolutely excel and push the rifles’ limits beyond their edge in long-distance engagements. As a must accessory for assault rifles, special forces and trained military around the world hail optics as one of the defining aspects of winning fights. EOTech EXPS Series and AimPoint Comp & T series have been the most high-priced yet highly demanding low-powered scopes for various countries and have excelled their advancements in reliability, durability and particularly battery life with a whopping value of upto 80,000 hours.
Intermediate ranged scopes such as the Vortex Optics Spitfire 3x, Trijicon ACOG (Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight), ELCAN Specter, Russian PSOs and Rakurs etc. have been some of the most thoroughly battletested assault-rifle compatible scopes. The AKs thrive with the Russian advancements in their native red dots while their newer AK-12 variants also have the privilege to attach infrared and thermal vision scopes. The Afghanistan War, Syrian War, War in Iraq, Syrian Civil War, Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Desert Storm, Battle of Fallujah, Crimea takeover etc. have been some of the grounds where these optics have been tortured and heavily battle tested to push the respective AR capabilities limits.
Defence firms especially EOtech, Vortex Optics, Schmidt & Bender, Nightforce, Leupold & Stevens, Aimpoint etc. have now been particularly engrossed in the research and development of LPVOs (Linear Powered variable Optics) which have interchangable modes from low to high-powered zooming capability along with windage, elevation, illumination etc. which were ones a feat only accomplished by high-end sniper scopes. Moreover, the Western rifles especially the M4 variants, civilian AR-15 models, HK416 and modular assault rifles such as the SCAR have the advantage of being compatible to use First Focal Plane LPVOs – where the size of the reticle grows or shrinks according to the magnification and squeezes out the extreme ends of the rifle’s accurate firing capability.
Barrel Development
The origin of rifle barrels can be traced back to early breech-loading rifle designs, such as the Mauser Model 1871 which were basically made of steel but have since then immensely developed due to their extensive research and development, numerous iteratives and upgrades in manufacturing processes. Traditional materials such as carbon steel were widely used in early rifle barrels due to their strength and affordability. However, the introduction of stainless steel brought corrosion resistance to the forefront, making it a popular choice in modern barrels. Additionally, the development of alloys like chrome-molybdenum steel offered a balance between strength, heat resistance, and ease of machining. In recent years, advanced materials such as stainless steel alloys with enhanced properties and carbon fiber composites have been explored for their potential to reduce weight while maintaining durability and accuracy. These days even 3D printing has emerged as a qualitative yet cost-effective method of barrel manufacturing.
One significant innovation in barrel development has been the Cold Hammer Forged Barrel making which is often considered one of the best in this practise. It involves hammering a pre-formed barrel blank around a mandrel under high pressure. This compresses and strengthens the barrel’s grain structure, resulting in increased durability and resistance to wear and tear. The precise hammering action during the CHF process ensures consistent rifling and bore dimensions, contributing to enhanced accuracy and tighter shot groups. This consistency helps minimize variables that can affect bullet trajectory and impact point. These barrels exhibit improved heat resistance due to the denser grain structure achieved through hammer forging. This allows for sustained firing without adversely affecting the barrel’s performance or compromising accuracy. The increased strength and durability of CHF barrels result in extended barrel life compared to conventionally manufactured barrels. This makes them suitable for high-volume shooting and military applications where reliability and longevity are crucial. Heckler & Koch is regarded as one of the best brands in this superior barrel production and apart from their G28 and MR762 Designated Marksman Rifles, they also apply this method to their regular G36 assault rifles, the standard issue AR of Germany.
Another significant approach is the free-floating barrel mechanism, which although is more prevalent more newer snipers and DMRs, yet is also being applied to high-end and expensive assault rifles. One of the primary advantages of a free-floating barrel is enhanced accuracy. By minimizing contact between the barrel and the rifle’s stock or handguard, free-floating barrels are less susceptible to external forces, such as barrel harmonics or pressure points. This reduces potential interference with the barrel’s harmonics and improves shot-to-shot consistency, resulting in improved accuracy. With a free-floating design, air can circulate around the barrel, aiding in heat dissipation. Moreover the reduced barrel harmonics, obstruction and zero impact of external factors let the rounds follow their desired trajectory and precision without compromising any ballistic roadblock factors. Daniel Defense DDM4 series, SCARs and HK-416 are among the most notable deadly assault rifles which feature these superior cold-hammer forged free-floating barrels.
Rail Development
A rail of an assault rifle is the top/bottom/360 degrees around the barrel cover which lets permits the accessory mounting points and enhanced grip functions. In the early days of assault rifles, most rifles did not have dedicated attachment points for accessories. The Weaver rail system, invented by William Ralph Weaver, was introduced in the 1960s and had a series of crosswise slots that allowed for the attachment of various accessories, such as scopes and rings. However this system wasn’t specifically meant for assault rifles which ultimately didn’t aid in its adoption by militaries. The Picatinny rail, also known as the MIL-STD-1913 rail, was standardized in the 1980s and features a series of evenly spaced slots, allowing for precise and secure attachment of accessories. It became the industry standard for mounting optics, lasers, lights, grips, and other accessories on firearms, including assault rifles and enhanced the modularity and customization options of assault rifles.
In the 2000s, further advancements in accessory attachment systems were introduced. KeyMod and M-LOK emerged as popular systems for attaching accessories to handguards and rail systems. KeyMod, developed by VLTOR Weapon Systems, featured key-shaped slots that allowed for direct attachment of accessories. M-LOK, developed by Magpul Industries, utilized a series of elongated slots for attaching accessories. Both KeyMod and M-LOK provided lightweight, low-profile, and secure attachment solutions, replacing traditional Picatinny rails in some applications. These rail systems minimize material content and weight while maximizing the handling and capability of accessory mounting attachments, and have also shown a great deal of success in numerous torture testing.
The NGSW Programme
Started in 2017, the Next Generation Squad Weapon (NGSW) is an United States military program created to replace the currently standard-issue M4s and M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW) LMGs – both of which are massively combat-proven platforms. FN, Textron, Sig Sauer, Beretta and General Dynamics had entered this tender with Sig Sauer winning the contract for both the entries with their XM7 and XM250 guns while Vortex Optics won in the optics category. Featuring a stroke-stroke gas-operated piston driven system, M-LOK handguard, ambidextrous controls and an effective range of 600m, the Sig Sauer MCX Spear – XM7 will take up the next gen assault rifle warfare and has been the face of future of assault rifle warfare since it won the competition. Now why? This rifle comes as a behemoth pack with its powerful specifications, a default titanium and steel-made SIGSRD 7.62QD suppressor and the Vortex Optics XM157 FCS 1-6x variable optic which comes with a laser range finder, night vision reticle system, thermal sight and a futuristic ballistic calculator – all in one package with the only downsides being some more added weight and 20-round detachable box magazines (10 rounds less than M4s). Since its contract winning, it has created quite a stir in futuristic assault rifle capabilities and many defence analysts have said that despite some downsides, it will be create a ground breaking effect once full induction rolls out. The NGSW program aims to develop a new family of weapons that offer increased lethality compared to current small arms. This includes improved accuracy, range, and terminal ballistics, enabling soldiers to engage targets at greater distances and effectively penetrate modern body armor. The XM7 comes with SIG-proprietary 6.8x51mm SIG FURY ammunition – a centrefire rimless bottlenecked cartridge specifically made for this rifle due to its increased stopping power, armour penetration and better bullet trajectory leading to better and more consistent accuracy.
And obviously, a country like USA which has the strongest military in the world across its army, navy and air force prowess rapidly replacing their proven grounds like M4 which has saved their units countless times in numerous wars is bound to make some shockwaves in the news. But then again, considering the near future tracking, humans aren’t gonna invent unreal technologies in assault rifle advancements such as shooting railgun lasers out of a rifle barrel – but it’s more like the enhanced performance across all domain by improving the durability, accessories and attachments, firing capability and minor tweaks.
TrackingPoint’s Aid
TrackingPoint is an applied technology company based in Austin, Texas. In 2011, it created a long-range rifle system that was the first precision guided firearm. Although its current testing is for a bolt-action sniper rifle with testbeds of .338 Lapua Magnum and .300 Winchester Magnum ammunition, it is ongoing its research in NATO 7.62 and 5.56 ammo too. The exceptional scope which TrackingPoint has developed will likely give the enemies on the other side a run for their lives if it seals any military contracts because the optic, although a bit large than conventional ones have tons of features. The core engine that tracks the target, calculates range and the ballistic solution, and works in concert with the shooter and guided trigger to release the shot – which in other words has a live aim-assist which is actually connected to a main computer through WiFi. The rifle’s trigger is hard-wired to the networked tracking scope. The networked tracking scope controls the trigger weight to eliminate trigger squeeze and shot timing errors. Even an integrated camera captures video and still images from the networked tracking scope and heads up display. Recorded images can be downloaded to a smartphone or tablet from the scope and transmitted via email or social media for recce purposes. In January 2014, the U.S. Army purchased six TrackingPoint fire control systems to begin exploring purported key target acquisition and aiming technologies. The Army has integrated the system onto the XM2010 Enhanced Sniper Rifle for military testing.
Also Read, Reel Vs Real : From a Sharpshooter’s Eye
Conclusion
The development of next-generation assault rifles is an ongoing process, driven by advancements in technology, changing battlefield requirements, and the pursuit of increased effectiveness and versatility. While specific projects may vary, here are some notable progressions and ongoing developments in next-gen assault rifle designs:
Bullpup Configurations: Bullpup assault rifles, with their rearward-placed action and compact design, continue to be explored for their improved manoeuvrability and balance. Ongoing projects focus on refining ergonomics, optimizing trigger mechanisms, and integrating advanced optics and accessory attachment systems.
Lightweight Materials: The use of lightweight materials, such as advanced polymers and composites, is a key focus in next-gen assault rifle development. These materials aim to reduce overall weight while maintaining durability, strength, and corrosion resistance. This allows for enhanced mobility and extended operational endurance.
Modular Platforms: Next-gen assault rifles often emphasize modularity, enabling quick reconfiguration to suit different mission requirements. Modular platforms allow for the attachment of various accessories, adjustable stocks, and interchangeable barrels to adapt to specific combat situations, from close-quarters engagements to long-range precision shots.
Improved Ergonomics: The human-machine interface is a critical consideration in next-gen assault rifle designs. Efforts are focused on enhancing user ergonomics, such as adjustable grips, improved trigger control, and customizable controls, to optimize comfort, handling, and overall shooter performance.
Integrated Electronics: Next-gen assault rifles are increasingly integrating electronic components to enhance their capabilities. This includes the incorporation of advanced optics with built-in rangefinders, ballistic calculators, and Heads-Up Displays (HUDs) for improved target acquisition, accuracy, and situational awareness.
Enhanced Fire Control Systems: Advanced fire control systems are being integrated into next-gen assault rifles, providing improved accuracy, increased effective range, and better shot placement. These systems may incorporate features such as enhanced ballistic compensation, programmable burst modes, and improved recoil management.
Ammunition Advances: Development efforts are underway to create new ammunition types specifically optimized for next-gen assault rifles. This includes advancements in caseless ammunition, reduced recoil cartridges, and improved armor-piercing and fragmentation rounds, allowing for increased lethality and penetration capabilities.
