The innovative, modular multi-caliber CZ BREN 3 model stands out for its high accuracy, extreme durability, impressive shooting comfort and absolute reliability. All versions of the third generation CZ BREN meet the demanding requirements of NATO AC/225 D/14 tests and users can fully rely on them for reliable operation in the most demanding conditions, such as high or low temperatures, salt water, sand, mud or dust.

“The CZ BREN 3 is the result of feedback we received from soldiers, police officers and special forces personnel from around the world, who are equipped with the previous CZ BREN series. Our top experts have innovatively transferred this wealth of experience into the new CZ BREN 3 generation, with an emphasis on improving key features that include sophisticated ergonomics and the resulting shooting comfort. All of this leads us to believe that our new flagship product in the select-fire rifle segment will be a great success with the military and security forces,” said Jan Zajic, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors at CZ.

The CZ BREN 3 comes in two standard calibers and several barrel lengths. The 5.56 × 45 NATO caliber version is available with a 7″, 11″, 14.5″ or 16.5″ barrel. The 300 AAC Blackout caliber version is available with a 7″ or 9″ barrel. All barrels are cold hammer forged, which ensures high accuracy, and their already impressive durability is radically increased even more by a chrome-lined bore. Extraction of combustion gas can be adjusted with a three-position gas port regulator, which optimizes operation when using a suppressor or when faced with adverse conditions or gun fouling.

Fully ambidextrous, AR-style controls include a 45° firing mode selector (safe/single shot/full-auto), magazine release and bolt catch/release (on the left side of the receiver and inside the trigger guard). The non-reciprocal charging handle is on both sides of the firearm. One side has a fixed handle and the other side has a folding handle, with both handles being swappable.

The CZ BREN 3 series is equipped with a folding, four-position telescopic stock made of a highly durable polymer. However, a PDW-style four-position telescopic stock is also available. One of the key features of the CZ BREN 3’s high modularity is the easily replaceable extended forend, which is made of highly durable aluminum alloy. The standard extended forend is equipped with an M-LOK interface for mounting a wide range of accessories, such as sights, flashlights, laser markers, and more. The user can also choose from a STANAG 4694 or Suppressor-Ready forend – the latter is sized for mounting a suppressor. A total of seven QD attachment points on all versions allows for increased options on how to attach rifle slings.

In short, the CZ BREN 3 is an advanced service rifle for the 21st century. No matter where you are or what situations you face, you can count on the accuracy, reliability, and advanced performance you need to successfully complete your mission.

The fully automatic CZ BREN 3 series is only available for use by official armed forces.

The FN MINIMI is often fitted with an optical sight mounted on a rail that is integral with the feed cover. However, it is difficult to mount two optics in-line on the current rail. Configurations of both the FN MINIMI 5.56 Mk3 and FN MINIMI 7.62 Mk3 have been introduced with a longer rail feed cover that includes 23 slots. 

The one-piece rigid top rail gives sufficient rail length to mount two optics in-line. For example, a non-magnifying day optic with a magnifier, or a day optic with a night vision optic. Mounting both optics on a single rail provides reliable assembly and ensures greater accuracy. The standard adjustable rear iron sight has been replaced by a flip-up non-adjustable rear sight for back-up use. 

A cover retaining latch holds the feed cover open during loading, unloading and clearing actions to counter the weight of the optics. This ensures that handling is equally safe and easy with or without optics fitted. 

These modifications give the user a valuable added capability that can make a real difference in current operational conditions. 

This variant of the FN MINIMI Mk3, available in 5.56x45mm NATO or 7.62x51mm NATO calibre, will be on display at the FN Herstal stand at the major EUROSATORY trade show, to be held in Paris-Villepinte, from 17 to 21 June 20.

Based on a revolutionary new digital Vertical-Cavity, Surface Emitting Laser (VCSEL) diode core, the MILR supports the widest range of platforms and applications that allows for a singular, lightweight, and comprehensive solution for advanced ranging, aiming, illuminating, and ballistic solutions. Optimized for machinegun use and fully feature capable for precision rifles as well as remote weapon stations, the MILR is the only device that enables full day and night ballistic capability from a weapons platform without the use of a clip-on night vision device.

Capability Development

To ensure a decisive advantage during night operations and increase survivability and lethality of the operator, a novel approach to range finding, infrared illumination, and targeting via a new fire control system was proposed by B.E. Meyers & Co.  The MILR Miniature Intelligent Laser Rangefinder is a Class 3B/3R combination high-power infrared aiming and illumination device with visible pointer, as well as range-finding ballistic computer (via the Applied Ballistics integrated software) that can both provide holds on-screen for use with a day-optic or actively declinate the disturbed infrared aiming laser for ballistic compensation when using head-borne night vision devices.

A new laser-based variable divergence illuminator provides ideal beam clarity over an extended application range while also decreasing response times in near and mid-range engagements. The system is designed for combat environmental criteria to include immersion, recoil, and thermal shock, while maintaining position stability and system functionality.

Technology and Design

The technology and functionality behind the MILR have been in development for the last several years and support a design concept which allows for complete digital manipulation of all key system controls, to include power, divergence, VIS/IR, ranging, mode/function, and more.  As the power and divergence controls on the MILR are completely digital there is no optical or mechanical movement within the system apart from azimuth and elevation boresight controls. Divergence and power are synchronized for best pointing and illumination effect and are continually and instantly at the operator’s discretion through the onboard control configurations.

The design and functionality of MILR is based on its ability to achieve digital laser movement within the system, specifically the infrared pointer, which internally declinates to create a ballistic solution for the shooter while under NVGs. The introduction of this first Disturbed Infrared Aiming Laser (DIAL) capability allows for true day-to-night extended-range overmatch for weapons platforms traditionally limited in effectiveness during night engagements. Additionally, the MILR uses a step-through ballistic setup interface that provides ballistic computer capability to user groups not previously trained to use a ballistic solver data, while retaining compatibility for traditional long-form profile setups.

Platforms and Applications

The versatility and ruggedness of the MILR design lends itself for use on most individual weapon systems, precision rifle platforms, crew-served weapon systems, and remote weapon stations as well as other integrated solutions. Additionally, MILR seamlessly communicates with Kestrel Instruments wind and weather meters for expeditious host-weapon data download. Our Disturbed Infrared Aiming Laser (DIAL) technology is collaboratively partnered with Applied Ballistics, Bluetooth, and Unity Tactical, providing a revolutionary technical concept in a rugged, ergonomic, lightweight, and combat-capable device.

Features and Specifications

By orchestrating these best-in-class features and combining them with our next generation VCSEL core, the technological versatility inherent in MILR allows for an exceptionally enhanced multi-platform visible/infrared aiming and illumination laser solution.  The MILR series of laser rangefinders truly create a new category of fire control systems, and like all B.E. Meyers & Co. products, are proudly Made in the USA. 
Interim specifications can be found here: https://bemeyers.com/milr

Options and Availability

The MILR series of laser systems will be available in either green or red visible wavelengths, and color options of black and flat dark earth, as well as custom configurations for certain orders. MILR is scheduled for multi-market production release in 2025 via select B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc. registered resellers in the US and internationally. Market competitive pricing and additional details will be announced in advance of release. For more information on MILR and other innovative laser solutions from B.E. Meyers & Co., please visit bemeyers.com/MILR or connect with us at info@bemeyers.com.

Capability Development

To ensure a decisive advantage during night operations and increase survivability and lethality of the operator, a new weapon mounted laser pointer and illuminator system was proposed by B.E. Meyers & Co. The DAGIR series combines the advantages of minimal size and weight while improving performance, reliability, and operability. A new laser-based variable divergence illuminator provides ideal beam clarity over an extended application range while also decreasing response times in near and mid-range engagements. The system is designed for combat environmental criteria to include immersion, recoil, and thermal shock, while maintaining position stability and system functionality.

The DAGIR is intended for everything from close-range carbine use to high-power extended-range machine gun applications, as well as integration with remote weapon stations and other platforms.

Technology and Design

The technology and functionality behind the DAGIR have been in development for the last several years and support a design concept which allows for complete digital manipulation of all key system controls, to include power, divergence, VIS/IR, mode/function, and more. As the power and divergence controls on the DAGIR are completely digital, there is no optical or mechanical movement within the system apart from azimuth and elevation boresight controls. Divergence and power are synchronized for best pointing and illumination effect and are continually and instantly at the operator’s discretion through the onboard control configurations.

The design of the DAGIR, specifically form factor, ergonomics, and functionality, is based on end-user feedback from across the spectrum of military, law enforcement, and recreational shooters which started with our introduction of MAWL®, currently with over 25,000 systems in use worldwide. DAGIR seeks to incorporate the most sought-after design aspects of all modern laser systems on the market and advances them.

Platforms and Applications

The versatility and ruggedness of the DAGIR design lends itself for use on individual weapon systems, precision rifles, crew-served weapon systems, and remote weapon stations as well as other platforms. DAGIR is capable of operating in training mode, or selectable power levels. Through our collaborative partnership with Unity Tactical that allows for the incorporation of their various remote activation cables by way of our patented Wakizashi communications port, we ensure a myriad of control configurations and placement options.

Features and Specifications

By orchestrating these best-in-class features and combining them with our next generation VCSEL core, the technological versatility inherent in DAGIR allows for an exceptionally enhanced multi-platform visible and infrared aiming and illumination laser solution. This is not just a broadening of specifications, but by questioning the status quo, the DAGIR exhibits a truly extraordinary pivot in combat laser system design. The DAGIR series of lasers, like all B.E. Meyers & Co. products, are proudly Made in the USA. Interim specifications can be found here: bemeyers.com/DAGIR

Options and Availability

The DAGIR series of laser systems will be available in either green or red visible wavelength options, and color options of black and flat dark earth, as well as custom configurations for certain orders. DAGIR is scheduled for multi-market production release in 2025 via select B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc. registered resellers in the US and internationally. Market competitive pricing and additional details will be announced in advance of release. For more information on DAGIR and other innovative laser solutions from B.E. Meyers & Co., please visit bemeyers.com/DAGIR or connect with us at info@bemeyers.com.

The ST54 provides the base for a multi-mission respiratory protection system designed to keep the wearer safe, operating for longer and working more efficiently. The latest variation of the ST54 increases wearer comfort, improved durability, optimized weapon sighting and conformity to the strict requirements of the updated NFPA 1986:2023 standard.

The ST54 provides users with a comfortable, customizable high-performance system with flame hardening, breathing performance, rough handling and passive speech in a package that is easily integrated into tactical kit profiles. Wearer agility in the field is maximized via the system’s ergonomic clam shell back-frame with enhanced stability and weight distribution, a new ‘drag handle’ for emergency extraction and cobra buckles for Quick Drop capability.

Other recent improvements to the system include upgraded breathing performance with reduced exhalation resistance, and the addition of a new clear outsert providing higher abrasion resistance. Additionally, pneumatic improvements include an over pressure protection device that protects the system from over-charging or damage, even if connected to higher pressure charging sources, and an optional remote lightning fill.

Remote dual trans-fill located on the user’s right side of the waist belt provides a connection to rapidly trans-fill between two SCBAs (in both directions).

The ST54 was displayed alongside Avon Protection’s full range of tactical operator CBRN protection equipment, including the Modular integrated Tactical Respirator (MiTR) concept – a new type of integrated respirator system for operational applications that don’t require full CBRN protection; the CBRN protective suit concept, designed to integrate with the widely deployed CBRN respiratory masks; and EXOSKIN CBRN boots and gloves for international military, special forces and first responder markets.

Avon Protection’s sister company, Team Wendy, also showed their range of ballistic and bump helmets, including the newest EPIC line of ballistic helmets.

“In operating contexts where conditions can deteriorate rapidly,” says Jamie Snyder, Senior Director BD & Sales, Commercial Americas, Avon Protection and Team Wendy, “the ST54 provides a respiratory protection system that keeps operators performing effectively over long periods. Combined with the range of Avon Protection CBRN-protective garments and Team Wendy helmets, we are demonstrating tactical kit at the cutting edge of safety and capability at SHOT Show 2024.”

You can also check out our 5-screen V-300 simulator and its newest scenarios and skill drills. Strap on the Threat-Fire electric consequence device and equip yourself with a weapon fitted with our kits that produce realistic recoil. Visit us at booth #20535.

But, we’re getting backchannels reports that SOCOM’s purchase of an unreported number of SIG MG 338s was for a small number of evaluation guns and that its LMG-M competition continues.

We are aware that the SOCOM competition was down to three systems offered by SIG Sauer, Lone Star Future Weapons, and Ohio Ordnance Works and we’d seen press about two of the entrants, but OOW had yet to reveal any information publicly about its weapon system until today.

Along with an public invitation to see the REAPR at the company’s exhibition booth 70405 at SHOT Show 2024, it also said photos and a specification sheet will be made available next week.

While OOW refers to the REAPR as, “a revolution in modern military general purpose machine guns (GPMG)” and not a “lightweight medium machinegun” per se, it goes on to say the weapon is, “Designed to exceed SOCOM military specifications,” a clear indication of the company’s positioning REAPR for use by Special Operations Command.

While few details were offered, OOW shared the following features:

• Lightweight Design
• Chambered in 338 Norma Magnum
• Compatible with a 7.62 NATO conversion kit
• Simple and robust receiver
• Tool-less field stripping
• One-handed barrel changes
• Modular, transportable design that breaks downs into three components in under ten seconds

OOW says REAPR is available now in small quantities with full volume production beginning April 2024.

No matter the use-case, the Mark 4HD’s optical clarity and lightweight design will get the job done at the range or in the field. The Mark 4HD series features a 4:1 zoom ratio and five magnification ranges, giving you an accurate and reliable option for close-quarter engagements, long-range dominance, and everything in between.

The new lineup includes:

• Mark 4HD 1-4×24
• Mark 4HD 2.5-10×42
• Mark 4HD 4.5-18×52
• Mark 4HD 6-24×52
• Mark 4HD 8-32×56

The 1-4.5×24 and 2.5-10×42 models feature 30mm maintubes. All 1-4.5×24 models are Second Focal Plane, while the 2.5-10×42 model is available in first (FFP) or second focal plane (SFP). The three higher magnification options have 34mm maintubes and are all FFP optics. MIL or MOA adjustments and reticles are available throughout the line.

“The Mark 4HD family was designed to deliver incredible performance and versatility–there’s an answer in the line for every rifle, on every range,” said John Snodgrass, Tactical Product Line Manager for Leupold & Stevens, Inc. “While its features will allow it to immediately find a home on the rifle of even the most experienced professionals, we’re also excited that, right away, the Mark 4HD offers shooters across the board the opportunity to make the jump to premium performance optics.”

Illuminated reticle options are available. It is push-button operated and features Leupold’s Motion Sensor Technology (MST) which will put the illumination to sleep after five minutes of inactivity, reactivating it as soon as the scope moves.

The entire Mark 4HD family features Leupold’s Professional-Grade Optical System, which delivers the light transmission, glare reduction, and resolution that professional guides and shooters demand. The push-button ZeroLock dial system eliminates accidental dial movement and allows a rapid return to zero. Select models feature a similar ZeroLock windage turret.

New with the Mark 4HD is the PR3-MIL reticle. Building upon Leupold’s popular PR2-MIL reticle, the PR3 provides a clutter-free image for fast, accurate precision aiming.

“Since we rolled it out, the PR2-MIL reticle has been winning competitions around the world,” Snodgrass said. “The PR3-MIL is based on direct feedback from those very same competitive shooters. It utilizes the .25-MIL increment foundation of the PR2’s vertical and horizontal stadia lines, while removing the ‘Christmas Tree’ portion in the lower field of view. It’s incredibly fast and incredibly clear.”

The Mark 4HD is waterproof, fogproof, shockproof, and guaranteed to perform for life. Like all Leu

More information is available on Leupold.com

Formed on 1 November 1992, Dasan Machineries is an important small arms manufacturer in South Korea. It tends to focus on export markets, whilst competitor SNT Motiv concentrates on serving the Republic of Korea (ROK) Armed Forces. However, there is a lot of crossover, since Dasan has regularly subcontracted to SNT Motiv for domestic contracts, plus it is offering complete weapons to the country’s military.

At the Seoul ADEX 2023 exhibition, held from 17-22 October, Dasan Machineries’ focus was on promoting the DSAR-15 family of weapons, these being an evolution of the ubiquitous AR-15 series. Prominent was the base DSAR-15P assault rifle. Kang W. Lee, Dasan’s Sales Division Executive Director, said the DSAR-15 has been continuously improved since it entered the international market in 2016. He also said the weapon had been sold to many countries – more on that later.

At Seoul ADEX 2023, a DSAR-15P with 14.5-inch barrel was on display. This rifle with gas-operated piston (note that the “P” designation in its name stands for piston) and rotating bolt, and it has a length of 33in (840mm) and weight of 6.8lb (3.1kg). It features an ambidextrous charging handle and collapsible butt stock with six positions. Its effective range is listed as 547y (500m).

Significantly, the DSAR-15PC 5.56 x 45mm rifle was selected in June 2020 to meet a requirement for 16,300 new carbines for South Korea’s Special Warfare Command. After a subsequent development and evaluation period, these weapons would have begun to replace the incumbent K1A carbine. The DSAR-15PC with 11.5-inch barrel had won out over the competing SNT Motiv STC16 for this program.

However, this Special Operations Submachine gun Type I program was suspended after an investigation revealed that Dasan had gained unauthorized access to government documentation about the type of weapons being sought. The president of Dasan and a former army officer were later charged. The country’s Defense Acquisition and Program Administration (DAPA) subsequently halted this procurement effort in June 2021, though it was recently relaunched.

The delay has likely put competitor SNT Motiv in a better position, as in the interim it has won the Special Operations Submachinegun Type II program with its STC16 5.56mm carbine. When the Type I program was launched, SNT Motiv’s weapon was only in prototype form, whereas now it is fully developed. One source told Small Arms Defense Journal that some of these shenanigans may be politically motivated.

Also on show at Seoul ADEX was the DSAR-15PQ 5.56mm rifle, with the “Q” in its nomenclature denoting a quick-release barrel. In advertisements at the show, this DSAR-15PQ was also referred to as the NGAR, standing for Next-Generation Assault Rifle. Unveiled just last year, the DSAR-15PQ is available with 7.5-inch, 10.5-inch, 11.5-inch, 14.5-inch or 16-inch barrels. According to Dasan literature, the version with an 11.5-inch barrel weighs 6.6lb (3kg), is 28.9in (733.5mm) long and has an effective range of 437y (400m). Its rate of fire is listed as 750-850 rounds per minute. A silencer has been developed for it too. Kang said the DSAR-15PQ has already been tested by the Republic of Korea Army (ROKA).

Also newly exhibited was the DSAR-762, a 7.62 x 51mm rifle with a 16-inch barrel, after its development was completed last year. It has an effective range of 875y (800m). It uses a gas piston and can fire on fully automatic, but its recoil is more like that of a 5.56mm weapon, Kang noted. The DSAR-762 weighs 8.8lb (4kg) and measures 35.5in (902mm) long, plus it is available with a longer 20-inch barrel.

Also available is the DSSR-762 semiautomatic designated marksman rifle chambered in 7.62 x 51mm. This gas piston-operated weapon has a muzzle brake, adjustable bipod and 20-inch hammer-forged barrel to create an 875y (800m) range. Its overall length is 40.7in (1.035m), it weighs 9.6lb (4.3kg) and 5-, 10- or 20-round magazines are available.

Elsewhere, the DSAR-47 7.62 x 39mm rifle with 14.5-inch or 16-inch barrel is targeted at countries that use AK-47 weapons and ammunition. Nonetheless, it is still based on the AR-15/M4, so it features interchangeable parts. Dasan completed the DSAR-47 last year and it is now in the testing phase. The version with a 16-inch barrel weighs 7.5lb (3.4kg), and it offers a 383y (350m) range.

Dasan has won sizeable contracts overseas, plus it has a factory in the U.S. known as Alpha Foxtrot. The facility is located in Duluth, Georgia.

One of Dasan’s most recent successes was a deal from the Philippine National Police for 5,755 DSAR-15 rifles with 14.5-inch barrels and a full rail interface system. The rifles will be distributed by United Defense Manufacturing Corporation in the Philippines, in what SADJ understands is Dasan’s first major deal with Manila. The national police force showed off its first batch of DSAR-15s on 2 October. Another known Asian customer of Dasan rifles is the Indonesian Coast Guard.

Dasan also exhibited 5.56mm and 7.62mm versions of its belt-fed XR-17 machine gun, which use a long-stroke gas piston operating system. First shown at DX Korea last year, the latter medium machine gun weighs 13.9lb (6.3kg) and is 45.3 (1.15m) long. With a rate of fire of 550-650 rounds per minute, it has a maximum effective range of 875y (800m). As for the XR-17 light machine gun, it is 39.4in (1m) long and has an 18-inch barrel. The “X” in the designation shows that the XR-17 is still in development. It will compete directly against the K15 5.56mm light machine gun and K16 7.62mm medium machine gun from SNT Motiv.

Unfortunately, Dasan has attracted some criticism over the quality of its weapons, both domestically and internationally. A prime example was a sale to Finland with rifles patterned after the AK, following a public tender. These were for the Maanpuolustuskoulutusyhdistys (MPK, which translates as the National Defense Training Association of Finland), which is responsible for providing military training to Finnish citizens. The MPK wanted a rifle that would mimic in-service RK 62 and RK 95 7.62mm rifles, and Dasan was selected to supply DAK47 weapons in 2020. They had several features such an adjustable folding buttstock, polymer pistol grip and aperture rear sight to replicate Finnish weapons.

However, there was a mixed reception to Dasan’s AK clone, with charges of flimsiness and production quality issues. A translated article on MPK’s official website dated 4 May 2022 stated: “In 2020, the rifles acquired from South Korea have not met expectations. Within a short period of time, there have been four malfunctions leading to breakage of the MPK rifle frame, which is why the weapons are prohibited from use. However, according to MPK, no personal injuries have occurred.”

The MPK pulled these weapons from service in the volunteer training force. Then, in January 2023, the MPK announced that Dasan would recall the rifles and provide an AR-15-based variant instead. Simultaneously, the MPK will obtain new AR-15-based 5.56mm rifles from Sako.

Another South Korean firm to exhibit at Seoul ADEX 2023 was K-Tech Firearms, which was only established in 2018. In 2020, DAPA licensed K-Tech to produce firearms, and in March this year it signed a contract with Caracal to promote its weapons in the South Korean market. At the Seoul exhibition, K-Tech had on display KCAR 816 and KCAR 817 rifles, which were clearly Caracal offerings.

Competitors for the aforementioned and resurrected Special Operations Submachinegun Type I program are almost certainly set to include SNT Motiv, Dasan Machineries, and K-Tech.

SNT Motiv, South Korea’s best-known small arms manufacturer, announced during Seoul ADEX 2023, held from 17-22 October, that its STC16 carbine had received the nomenclature K13 from the Ministry of National Defense after being selected for use by the country’s Special Warfare Command.

SNT Motiv stated, “The K13 submachine gun, which was selected for the Special Operations Submachine Gun Type II project, was developed with proprietary technology by applying global trends in rifle development, and accuracy and durability were improved based on the latest manufacturing technology.”

“Following the determination of its combat capability last April,” the manufacturer continued, “a supply contract was signed with the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), and it is scheduled to be put into service starting in December. Based on this, SNT Motiv plans to invest more actively in research and development for its next rifle business.”

The K13 5.56mm carbine will be allocated to special forces units to replace the badly aging K1/K1A submachine gun that has served more than 40 years. The first units to receive it will be the 13th Special Mission Brigade of the Republic of Korea Army (ROKA), the Special Warfare Flotilla of the ROK Navy, and the Combat Control Team of the ROK Air Force.

South Korea was originally planning to acquire a foreign-made weapon such as the HK416 or SIG MCX for this requirement, but the STC16 was deemed acceptable after it underwent a yearlong evaluation to ensure it met tough military standards. Acquisition of this weapon is a major step forward for ROK special forces, as the K1A was inadequate for the demands of contemporary warfare.

Small Arms Defense Journal understands that some 1,710 K13s have been ordered under an initial contract. While this number is relatively small, it does set a foundation for further sales as the ROK military seeks to field a next generation of carbines, plus it encourages SNT Motiv to actively sell the weapon on the export market.

In terms of nomenclature, “ST” denotes that a weapon is a company offering, while a “K” prefix is only provided once it is officially adopted by the South Korean military. The STC16 is modular, so components such as barrels, handguards and stocks are interchangeable. A suppressor will also be issued as standard. The carbine uses a short-stroke gas-operated piston.

It is chambered in 5.56 x 45mm caliber, and it weighs 6.6 pounds (3kg). The free-floating barrel is available in three lengths: 10.5-inch (265mm), 11.5-inch (292mm) and 14.5 inch (368mm), creating a weapon that measures between 29.5 and 31.9 inches (750 and 810mm) long overall. The weapons being delivered to ROK special forces all possess the 11.5-inch barrel.

MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rails over the receiver and forend at the 3, 6 and 9 o’clock positions allow various auxiliary devices to be attached, plus there is a foldable iron sight. It has ambidextrous control handles, magazine catches, and charging handles. The extendable stock has five positions, the handguard is compatible with the M4 series, and it is also useable with polymer magazines.

While the STC16/K13 took pride of place on SNT Motiv’s stand at Seoul ADEX 2023, other relatively new weapons on display were the STSM21 submachine gun, the hammerless STP9 pistol, the K15 and K15PARA 5.56mm light machine guns, the STSR23 7.62mm semiautomatic sniper rifle and the K16 7.62mm medium machine gun. The latter was launched last year, and the K15 in 2020.

The aforementioned STSR23 semiautomatic sniper rifle fires 7.62 x 51mm (308 Winchester) rounds. Although its first development phase is completed, a company spokesperson said the sniper rifle will continue to undergo further refinements; the project only commenced earlier this year. The STSR23 weighs 14.3 pounds (6.5kg) and is available with either a 20-inch (508mm) or 24-inch (609mm) barrel to give an overall length of 42.9 or 44.1 inches (1.09m or 1.12m) respectively. The company remains hopeful it will be eventually adopted by the ROK military as a replacement for the K14 7.62mm bolt-action sniper rifle.

The STSR20 12.7mm anti-materiel rifle is also in development as a company project, and a prototype was displayed at the Seoul exhibition. This rifle has a 29-inch (736.6mm) barrel, and it weighs approximately 30.9 pounds (14kg).

Moving on, the STSM21 is a 9 x 19mm submachine gun weighing 6.6 pounds (3kg) for close-quarters battle. Its free-floating barrel length is 8.6 inches (220mm) and, overall, the STSM21 measures 24-26.4 inches (610-670mm) long. SNT Motiv started development of this weapon with delayed blowback operating system in 2021.

The STP9 9mm striker-fired pistol was unveiled at DX Korea 2022, while the one shown at Seoul ADEX 2023 was stamped with the description STP9A. It weighs 1.6 pounds (740g) and has a 4.3-inch (109mm) barrel. Interestingly, it features an M59-compatible magazine, which would permit the ROK military to reuse existing pistol magazines. Although no tender exercise has yet been announced, SNT Motiv is hoping it could potentially replace the K5 pistol widely used by South Korea’s military.

Although SNT Motiv emerged triumphant with its STC16 in the Special Operations Submachinegun Type II program, the earlier Type I project has still not been resolved. This program represents a requirement for nearly 16,000 carbines, and Dasan Machineries, another South Korean small arms firm, had won the tender with its DSAR-15PC. However, DAPA halted this effort in 2021 after it was discovered that Dasan employees “had unauthorized access beforehand to the type of weapons the agency was planning to develop,” according to The Korean Herald.

However, the Type I project was recently reinitiated, and SNT Motiv is expected to submit an improved version of the STC16/K13 for this other carbine competition. Once both the Special Operations Submachinegun Type I and II programs are completed, the MND will doubtlessly look to launch a widespread replacement for ubiquitous K2 and K2C1 assault rifles.