Defence Force buying new weapons

The New Zealand Defence Force is buying two new weapons, the Barrett M107A1 anti-materiel weapon and the Barrett Multi Role Adaptive Design sniper rifle.

The New Zealand Defence Force is entering an agreement to buy two new weapons, the Barrett M107A1 anti-materiel weapon and the Barrett Multi Role Adaptive Design sniper rifle.

Forty M107A1 and 42 MRAD weapons will be bought, at a cost of NZ$4 million.

This cost includes day optics, suppressors and ballistic computer auxiliary equipment to complement a total weapon system.

The 0.50-calibre semi-automatic M107A1 anti-materiel rifle provides a new capability, giving soldiers the ability to identify and engage effectively vehicle or installation targets with precision to 1500m.

The Barrett MRAD .338 Lapua Magnum has been proven effective to 1500m. It replaces the current AW 7.62mm calibre sniper rifle, effective to 800m, which has reached the end of its service life.

This new weapon will increase significantly the range of NZDF snipers, and with the innovation of new tripods will increase their ability to shoot in various positions, from prone to standing.

Both weapons will be used by infantry units within the New Zealand Army and the New Zealand SAS, and will be introduced into service from mid-2018.

Chief of Army Major General Peter Kelly says the new weapons would provide soldiers with the latest technology and ensure they would be equipped for any battlefield environment they might encounter.

The new weapons were chosen after rigorous testing and feedback from qualified operators.

The MRAD was selected after six weeks of testing of a number of potential rifles at Waiouru, with more than 10,000 rounds fired in a variety of evaluation activities.

The M107A1 was adopted after a sole-source procurement approach following detailed market research and engagement with industry, as well as with ABCA partners on a suitable anti-materiel weapon solution that meets users' needs.

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7 comments

50 cal

Posted on 19-10-2017 08:16 | By Kenworthlogger

Those 50 cal rifles will take the head off an Isis terrorist well beyond 2000 meter....


Even more so;-

Posted on 19-10-2017 11:32 | By Papamoaner

The simple traditional 50cal bolt action sniper's rifle is still the favourite weapon of the Canadian snipers, who are the recognised world leaders at it in mil circles. It doesn't matter where they get hit, the entire body disintegrates at up to 3km. It's evidently because the shockwave around the projectile is massive, and the lead core within the projectile becomes molten after the first 1 km, striking the target with explosive effect. It's funny how the wheels go round and we sometimes go back to smaller is better - for example the Bushmaster M242 deck gun fitted to NZ warships. Doesn't look much from a distance, but a real David and Goliath scenario.


Cool toys

Posted on 19-10-2017 11:58 | By maildrop

They would have been useful if; a) NZDF had the rules of engagement to use them and were active in the war on terror, and b) all the terrorists had not returned "home" to Europe. As it is, the only thing they will be taking the head off are bottles. Cancel the order.


Gold plated rifles

Posted on 19-10-2017 12:29 | By Mark Watchman

I have seen a gold plated rifle before but that was the whim of a rich person. 4 million dollars for 82 rifles. $49,000 per rifle. Understanding that they are state of the art and with technological backup and accessories for that price I would fully expect these rifles to be either gold plated or come with a gun bearer for each rifle. Mark Watchman.


@Mark

Posted on 19-10-2017 17:05 | By Papamoaner

It's a lot of money alright, but we have a dedicated defence scientific establishment and they would have done extensive homework. These guys are good!


@Mark Watchman

Posted on 19-10-2017 23:33 | By The Caveman

My thoughts exactly $49,000 each ! A Google search indicates that a good new bog standard model can be purchased for around US$8,000 - being a nice NZ$12,000. (https://www.gunsamerica.com/Search/Category/64/Guns/Rifles/Barrett-Rifles.htm) While I accept that the New Zealand Defence Force is probably buying the top of the line models, with technical support and extras, there is still a BIG difference between NZ$12,000 (so I can go LONG range deer hunting), and $49,000 for the Army, considering that there is a big likely hood that they will not see "active" service.


@theCaveman

Posted on 20-10-2017 08:39 | By Papamoaner

Bit of a step-up from the trusty old LE#4 jungle carbine eh. You could buy them for 10 pounds in the early 1960's. Now they fetch upwards of $800 on Trademe when you can get them


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