Army looks to replace the M-16

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Army looks to replace the M-16

For the first time in almost 50 years, the U.S. Army wants to replace the standard rifle shouldered by hundreds of thousands of frontline troops around the world.

Federal News Network Staff

February 2, 2011 8:40 am

< a min read

The Army is looking for a new, standard-issue rifle. It would eventually replace the M-16 and its derivative, M-4. The weapons are carried daily by hundreds of thousands of troops. The Wall Street Journal reports, the Army is seeking proposals for a high tech infantry weapon. It would have greater range, more lethal ammunition, and computer-enhanced aiming. The M-16 has been in service since the 1960s. It’s developed a reputation for jamming in dusty Afghanistan. The Army plans an industry day for small arms manufacturers March 30.

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