Snipers to get new longer range rifles

The British firm Accuracy International Ltd will supply 580 rifles with day telescopic sights for snipers across the Services, which will fire a larger calibre bullet than the existing weapon.

The new rifle is being supplied as part of a broader Sniper System Improvement programme to give UK snipers more power, precision and stealth than ever before. All-weather new advanced day and night sights will mean snipers can operate around the clock in difficult conditions, and laser technology will allow distant targets to be accurately located.

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Baroness Taylor, Minister for Defence Equipment and Support, said:

"We are committed to providing our troops on the front line with the equipment they need. Military snipers provide vital capability on operations, defeating the enemy and protecting our troops on the ground.

"In response to feedback from operations we are investing in new sniper equipment. The first contract is for the new longer range rifle and day sight, and we expect to start taking deliveries of this kit early next year."

WO1 Kieren 'Mack' Macmahon of the Infantry Trials Development Unit (ITDU) said:

"ITDU has carried out a full trial and assessment of the new sniper rifle in different climatic conditions and it has performed well throughout.

"The weapon is a great improvement on the current in-service sniper rifle. The new sight allows greater engagement distances, it can be fitted with a suppressor allowing the sniper to get closer to the enemy without risk of compromise, and it has been fitted with a butt spike to aid stability during firing.

"We now have a sniper rifle that meets the latest user requirement."

Training units will familiarise themselves with the weapon and how it works with other parts of the sniper system. The rifle is due to be ready for operational use next spring.

Other elements of the Sniper System Improvement programme include night sights, spotting scopes, laser range finders and tripods, and will be sourced from a variety of suppliers taking the total procurement value to over £11 million.