the 5.56 x 45mm - 2004 - a chronology of development (part 15) - by daniel watters

8/13/2019 The 5.56 x 45mm - 2004 - A Chronology of Development (Part 15) - By Daniel Watters

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The Gunperson's Authoritative Internet Information Resource.

Part Fifteen...

The 5.56 X 45mm: 2004

A Chronology of Development by Daniel Watters

2004...

The SOPMOD PMO begins to centrally supply certain USSOCOM unitswith MRDs as an experimental Product Improvement Project (PIP),

for additional user assessment. NSWC-Crane handles this on alimited basis using centralized small purchases.

Portugal announces adoption of the HK G36. A legal protest ensues.

The Mexican National Defense Secretariat (Sedena) seeks fundsfrom the National Credit and Treasury agency for purchasing foreigntechnology to develop and produce an indigenously designedmilitary rifle. Eventually, Sedena invests the equivalent of $45million (USD) in the technology transfer, reportedly from HK.

Hornady and Ruger introduce the .204 Ruger. It uses a .222

Remington Magnum case necked down for .204" projectiles.

January: With the approval of the final revision of the SCAR JORD,

USSOCOM issues final Performance Specification documents for theSCAR-L and SCAR-H. An RFP is also issued. Projected procurementquantities are listed as follows:

Item/Configuration Engineering

Test Units

Low RateInitial

Production Production

SCAR-L

Standard 12 250 83,738

CQC 6 80 27,914

Sniper Variant (SV) 1 10 11,989

SCAR-H

Standard 1 68 14,931

CQC 0 10 6,990

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5.56mm 'Prologue'

5.56mm 1957-1962

5.56mm 1963-1964

5.56mm 1965-1966

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5.56mm 1970-1973

5.56mm 1974-1979

5.56mm 1980-1985

5.56mm 1986-1989

5.56mm 1990-1994

5.56mm 1995-1999

5.56mm 2000-2001

5.56mm 2002-2003

5.56mm 2004

5.56mm 2005

5.56mm 2006

5.56mm 2007

5.56mm 2008

5.56mm 2009

5.56mm Propellant

5.56mm FAQ - v1.14

5.56mm v. .223 Rem

Fléchette / SPIW

Multiplex / SALVO

Green Ammo

T G Z B l o g

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Sniper Variant (SV) 0 10 11,990

Standard(7.62x39mm)

0 68 2,932

TACOM awards Colt $11,260 for testing the suitability of the H2buffer with M4 Carbines.

TACOM awards a $9,639.42 delivery order to FNMI for 21 M16A4.

The British announce that their L85A2 IW and L86A2 LSW willrequire retrofitting with a new safety catch and spring. Troops inIraq have encountered instances, in which they have disengagedtheir rifle's safety, only to find that their rifle will not fire.

USSOCOM issues a pre-solicitation notice for the EGLM. Replacingearlier synopsis/solicitions, the EGLM contenders will now require afire control module, with ranging capabilities out to 600 meters (+/-5 meters). The goal is to provide a 25 percent increase in first-roundaccuracy over the existing M203 with the AN/PSQ-18A GrenadeLauncher Sight (formerly known as the GLD/NSM). The fire controlmodule and EGLM will also possess programmable data pathways forthe future development and fielding of programmable 40x46mmmunitions. All rights to the data interface are to be surrendered tothe Government for the establishment of a MILSPEC, or otherinterface control document.

ARDEC directs ATK to stop work on a common OICW/OCSW fuseand resume its previous efforts, albeit in 25mm.

HK's Johannes Murello files an US patent application for the scope

mount attachment system for the XM25.

NSWC-Crane awards a $14,700,000 contract to KAC for 22,000suppressors, 10,000 compensators and 10,000 sets of installationmaterials for the M4A1 carbine. Six proposals had been solicited,and five offers were received.

TACOM awards FNMI a $566,318.41 contract option for 1,253 M249Short Barrels. Later, an additional 2,000 short barrels are added for$903,940.

TACOM modifies its sole-source solicitation to Polymer Technologiesfrom 24,465 to 27,771 M249 100 Round Soft Pack Magazines.

TACOM awards a $229,866.18 delivery order to PolymerTechnologies for 7,771 M249 100 Round Soft Pack Magazines.

ARDEC issues a requirement for a 5.56mm Close Combat MissionCapability Kit (CCMCK) to be used with the M16, M4, and M249. TheCCMCK consists of low-velocity marking ammunition and weaponconversion kits.

syllabusThe Black Rifle by R. Blake

Stevens and Edward C. Ezell.

Second Edition. Collector Grade

Publications, Toronto, Ontario,

1992.

The Great Rifle Controversy by

Edward C. Ezell. Stackpole BooksHarrisburg, PA, 1984.

The M16 Controversies by

Thomas L. McNaugher. Praeger

Publishers, New York, NY, 1984.

The History and Development of

the M16 Rifle and its Cartridge

by David R. Hughes. Armory

Publications, Oceanside, CA,

1990.

The SPIW: The Deadliest

Weapon that Never Was by R.

Blake Stevens and Edward C.

Ezell. Collector Grade

Publications, Toronto, Ontario,

1985.

Black Rifle II: The M16 into the

21st Century by Christopher R.

Bartocci. Collector Grade

Publications, Cobourg, Ontario,

2004.

The Last Enfield - SA80: The

Reluctant Rifle by Steve Raw.

Collector Grade Publications,

Cobourg, Ontario, 2003.

More by Daniel... Other of Watters' learned works-in

progress for TGZ include A Brief

History of Fléchette and Project

SPIW, as well as .30 Carbine

Wildcats and Miniguns and the

Movies.

Valued E-mail Utility All E-mail to TGZ is screened by

MailWasher Pro for spam and

viruses. For a free trial download,

click here. Stop unwanted E-mail

before it reaches your machine.

Strongest recommendation.

Document History Publication: 12/10/1998Last Revised: 05/17/2009

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Paul Leitner-Wise files a patent application for the 7.82x24mm PDWcartridge.

February: TACOM-Picatinny awards HK a $2,273,000 R&D contractfor the XM8 Lightweight Assault Weapon System. HK is to produce250 to 300 XM8 to the improved design standard.

PEO-Soldier signs a memorandum of urgent requirement to justifythe letter contract for the tooling, design improvement, and fieldingof XM8 modular assault weapons to two Brigade Combat Teams(BCT) in the 2nd Quarter of FY 2005.

Colt submits an independent proposal to produce the XM8.

HK formally introduces the HKM4 system, consisting of product-improved replacement parts for the M4/M16 family. The mostdistinct change is the introduction of a gas piston system to replacethe direct gas impingement system used in the typical M4/M16.Retrofitted weapons will have the option of four different barrel

lengths (10, 14.5, 16.5, and 20 inches), but HK is also consideringthe possibility of offering upper receiver units and even theconstruction of complete weapons.

TACOM awards a $984,175.92 contract option to FNMI for theproduction of 2,106 M16A4.

NSWC-Crane issues a sole-source solicitation notice to Colt for 100M4A1 carbines and 100 CQBR.

NSWC-Crane issues a sole-source solicitation to Colt for 15 M4A1without carrying handle, 15 M4A1 with carrying handle, and 6 M4A1with barrel and front sight assembly installed.

USSOCOM amends the specifications for the SCAR-L and SCAR-H.

TACOM modifies its December 2003 delivery order from Aimpoint toreduce the individual cost of the M68, and increase the number ofsights ordered by 1,285. The award is reduced by $175.

The DOD's Inspector General (DODIG) releases the report " Sole-Source Awards for Quick Disconnect Silencers." The reportfinds that NSWC-Crane did not adequately plan its procurement of

suppressors for the SOPMOD kit, and that its subsequent sole-source contracts to KAC were not justified. However, OPS Inc.'sclaim that its suppressors were superior to the KAC design isrejected. NSWC-Crane is advised to either continue with the currentcompetitive solicitation for the FMBS, or recompete the earliersuppressor award and only place delivery orders on KAC's sole-source contract to support compelling urgency.

TACOM-ARDEC also announces its intent to negotiate a sole-sourcecontract with ITI to design and deliver 170 XM8 Visible Bright Light



Flashlights. The VBL will be mounted to the XM8's PCAPs.

NSWC-Crane issues a sole-source solicitation to KAC for 232 RISand 190 QD Compensators.

NSWC-Crane issues a combined synopsis/solicitation for 1,000ambidextrous selector switches from KAC. The selectors areintended for use with the M4A1 carbine.

NSWC-Crane releases another amendment to the MDNS solicitation.Final proposal revisions are requested from specific offerors for theMiniature Night Vision Sight II (MNVS II).

PM-Soldier Weapons and RDECOM-ARDEC issue a Sources Soughtannouncement for a COTS source of 200 round Soft Pack Magazines(belt bags) for the M249. The goal is to find a more durable productthan the existing plastic belt box, while also reducing the noisecreated by the belt shifting during movement.

NSWC-Dahlgren, on behalf of the PM-Ammunition, MARCORSYSCOMand USSOCOM, issues a sources-sought announcement for theacquisition and qualification of non-developmental improvements tothe existing 40mm M433 HEDP cartridge. Improvements mustinclude increased accuracy, due to reduced deviations in muzzlevelocity, and the incorporation of a self-destruct fuse. The warheadmust provide a high penetration capability against a variety oftargets, plus a high fragmentation effect.

March: RDECOM is officially established as a major subordinatecommand within AMC. It now assumes permanent control of theAMC's various research, development, and engineering centers,including ARDEC.

The US Army rejects Colt's proposal to produce the XM8. It isargued that since HK owns the data rights to the XM8, Colt wouldnot be able to make an exact duplicate of the rifle.

3ID Commanding General MG William G. Webster Jr. submits anoperational need statement to Deputy Chief of Staff (G-3) LTGRichard A. Cody for an integrated modular assault weapon system in

the form of the XM8. The ODCSA (G-3) does not validate or approvethe operational need statement.

Funding for the XM8 R&D effort is increased to $3,750,000.

TACOM awards a $459.02 delivery order to FNMI for a single M16A4.Later, TACOM awards an additional $834,633.52 delivery order for1,786 M16A4. The latter rifles are intended for FMS.

Lake City issues the report "Effects of Core Materials on RadialDisplacement of 5.56mm Bullet Components Under SpecificLoading Patterns and the Delineation of Deformation of



Failure Mode Due to These Loads."

The US Army awards a ~$9.2 million contract to Olin-Winchester forM855 Ball.

The US Coast Guard announces that the .499 LW conversions havebeen discontinued due to issues with unreliable ammunition and

poor weapon function. The Office of Cutter Forces (G-OCU) iscurrently evaluating more traditional weapons to fill the gapbetween the M16 and the M240.

NSWC-Crane issues a solicitation for 1,000 to 322,600 steelmagazines of HK's HRM pattern or its equivalent.

TACOM awards a $1,250,010 contract to HK for 41,667 SA80 30round steel magazines with maritime surface finish.

TACOM awards Okay Industries a $2,239,200 contract option for the production of 360,000 M16 thirty round magazines.

NSWC-Crane awards Litton Electro Optical Systems a $49,999,990contract for Miniature Night Vision Sight II (MNVS II) development,

part of the Miniature Day/Night Sight (MD/NS) program.

USSOCOM issues a solicitation for 12 to 3,000 COTS Visual Augmentation System (VAS) In Line Clip-On Night Sights for longgun application up to and including .50 caliber. This will replace theIntegrated Day/Night Fire Control Observation Device (INOD)

AN/PVS-19 and the Universal Night Sight AN/PVS-22. It will serve asa bridge until technology has matured where a full materiel solutioncan be achieved, i.e., a family of sniper sights which will meet therequirements of the JORD addendum dated 25 June 2003. Thedesired Optimal Resolution is 4.2 cycles per milliradian or better.The in-line sight must interface with existing day scopes withouthaving to adapt/modify existing scope rings, current day scopes, orshooters' firing positions. The system must also be able to mount onMIL-STD-1913 rails using a single throw lever type mounting system(KAC's PN: 22097 Knightscope base assembly) or equivalent.

NSWC-Crane, on behalf of the USMC, issues a sole-source

solicitation to Litton Electro Optical Systems for a minimum of 1,056 AN/PVS-17B and 1,010 AN/PVS-17C Marine Corps Miniature Night

Sights (MNS).

TACOM-ARDEC issues a market survey notice for a Close QuartersBattle Kit (CQB Kit) for use with the M16/M4. The kit will consist ofthe following items: 1) a compact cleaning kit; 2) a removable,spray-on weapons camouflage kit with a minimum of four colors; 3)a multiple magazine holder capable of holding two standard 30round magazines; 4) an add-on forward Picatinny rail system with aminimum of three rails with one bottom- mounting rail; 5) anadjustable low profile bipod; 6) a stock-mounted magazine pouch;



7) a tactical sling; and 8) and an improved flash hider.

PM-Soldier Weapons issues a sources sought announcement for aSingle or Three Point Sling for use with the M4 Carbine. The single

point sling must provide ready access to the M4, with no slingrepositioning necessary. It will attach the weapon directly to loadbearing equipment and will allow the wearer to keep their weapon ina near-ready position while performing two-handed tasks. Thethree-point sling must provide with fast and easy transitions, free oftangling or twisting, and offer the individual soldier with custom

positioning for weapon balance.

MARCORSYSCOM issues a RFI to identify foreign sources of COTStraining bolts compatible with SNC Technologies' Simunition FXMarking Cartridges. The Training Bolt will replace the currentlyexisting SESAMS Upper Receiver for the M16 and M4. The TrainingBolt will be exchanged with the standard bolt assembly to allow theuse of 5.56mm SESAMS FX marking cartridges from standard issueweapons. The Training Bolt must be designed to prevent the

accidental chambering and firing of lethal 5.56mm serviceammunition of any type while the Training Bolt is installed.

ARDEC's Non-Lethal/Scaleable Effects Team issues a sources soughtannouncement for a COTS non-lethal, kinetic impact energy system.The system will physically deter a targeted individual with highaccuracy at a range of 50 meters and a group of individuals at arange of up to 100 meters. The system must have a demonstratedeffectiveness to deter focused, motivated aggressors. The itemsought must be relatively lightweight with at least semi-automatic,rapid-fire, multi-shot capability. The system should also havemarking and irritant non-lethal munitions/projectile capabilities. It isrequired that the system have a version that can be fixed as anunder-barrel attachment to existing standard US lethal weapon

platforms (M4/M16 rifle) as well as a stand-alone individual weaponconfiguration.

TACOM yet again modifies its December 2003 delivery order from Aimpoint to increase the individual cost of the M68, and reduce thenumber of sights ordered by 540. The award is reduced by another$165.

PM-Soldier Weapons issues a sources sought announcement for a

Weapon Light. The Weapon light must attach to MIL-STD-1913 Railsystem with an integral mount, provide minimum runtime of 60minutes continuous on one battery change with a minimum outputof 65 Lumens, provide for remote operation for momentary on byuse of a tape switch (6" minimum), possess attachable accessory"flip-up" IR filter, and be capable of safely and reliably functioning ina military environment.

RDECOM-ARDEC issues a sources sought notice for NDI Optical Aiming Devices for Small Caliber Weapons. This device will act as an



add-on magnifier for the M68 CCO, providing a 2X to 3X imagemagnification while maintaining the red dot at minimal size to avoidinterference with the gunner's aiming ability. Items to be consideredfor this evaluation must be capable of withstanding exposure toharsh military environments and rough handling, withoutdegradation of performance. This effort is part of a ForeignComparative Testing (FCT) exercise; however, domestic sources arealso invited to respond.

ARMS, Inc.'s Richard E. Swan applies for reissue of his patents forthe SIR.

USAF Air Combat Command, 99th CONS - Nellis AFB issues asolicitation for accessories for the M4 to include (but not be limitedto) infrared target pointer/illuminator/aiming laser, soundsuppressor kit, forward pistol grip assembly and rail adaptor system.

NSWC-Crane issues a sole-source solicitation to LMT for 93 M203nine-inch barrel assemblies.

NSWC-Dahlgren, on behalf of PM-Ammunition, MARCORSYSCOM,and USSOCOM, issues a solicitation for three types of NDI 40mmammunition. Intended for use with the M79, M203, and EGLM, thecartridges will include a Tactical Marking Cartridge (IR), a Low Cost,Short Range Day/Night Training Cartridge, and an Extended Range40mm Day/Night Training Cartridge.

USSOCOM also issues a sources-sought announcement forCOTS/NDI 40x46mm HE-Frag Enhanced Cartridges.

NSWC-Crane issues a sole-source solicitation notice to LewisMachine and Tool (LMT) for 130 M203 grenade launchers equippedwith 9 inch barrels.

USSOCOM also announces its intent to include the EGLM as part ofthe SCAR solicitation. The contract will require a maximum of21,000 EGLM, 25,000 fire control modules, and 25,000 stand-alonebuttstocks.

On behalf of the US Army, James Grassi files a patent application for

a low-velocity air-burst munition and programmable launchingsystem to upgrade the existing M203.

HK's Johannes Murello receives US Patent #6,708,437 titled"Apparatus for Loading a Cartridge into a Cartridge Chamber."

Malaysia's National Aerospace and Defence Industries (NADI) andSteyr Mannlicher enter a joint venture to transfer Steyr's productionof the AUG to Malaysia.

April: Colt Defense LLC files suit against Bushmaster Firearms, Inc.and HK in the US District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.

http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?patentnumber=6708437








Related to the marketing of the M4 Carbine, Colt cites acts oftrademark infringement, trade dress infringement, trademarkdilution, false designation of origin, false advertising, patentinfringement, unfair competition, and deceptive trade practices. Coltis seeking injunctive relief and damages against the two companies.

TACOM awards Colt a $123,035,995 contract for the production of124,803 M4 and M4A1 carbines. The first delivery order for 22,435M4 and 1,288 M4A1 is worth $21,373,067.00. These are intendedfor the US Army, USMC, USAF, and FMS.

TACOM awards a $33,967.48 delivery order to FNMI for 74 M16A4.Later, TACOM awards an additional $2,430,051.88 delivery order for5,294 M16A4. The latter rifles are intended for FMS. (This order issubsequently reduced by 10 rifles.) TACOM awards yet anotherdelivery order worth $2,303,400.00 for 5,000 M16A4 rifles for FMSto Nepal.

USSOCOM amends the specifications and the RFP for the SCAR-L,

SCAR-H, and EGLM. SCAR contenders must now be submitted withan EGLM, fire control module, and a stand-alone buttstock.Projected EGLM procurement quantities are listed as follows:

Item/Configuration EngineeringTest Units

Low RateInitial

Production Production

EGLM

Launcher 12 250 20,738

Fire Control Module 12 250 24,738

Stand-AloneButtstock

12 250 24,738

After increasing XM8 R&D funding to $5,625,000, the US Armyrequests an additional $26 million from Congress to purchase 7,000XM8. The Army wants to field the XM8 system with two combatbrigade teams by September 2005. In related news, the XM8's"Milestone C" review (the prelude to a full-rate production decision)is pushed back from September 2004 to February 2005.

Colt's Paul M. Hochstrate and Michael F. LaPlante file an applicationfor an improved lockwork and selector switch design. The newdesign would allow a M4/M16 selector switch to travel from Safe toSemi to Auto within 90 degrees of movement as opposed to thecurrent 180 degrees.

TACOM-ARDEC issues a market survey announcement for frangible,non-toxic, limited-range training ammunition in 5.56mm, packed inlinks and individually. The ammunition (both tracer and ball) shouldbe capable of being fired in standard service weapons without therequirement for any special weapon modifications or the presence ofancillary devices. The ammunition's trajectory and performance



characteristics shall be comparable to standard service rounds out to100 meters and have a maximum range that is less than standardammunition.

ARDEC issues a market survey announcement for a 40mm GrenadeLauncher Module (GLM). The GLM must mount on the M4 ModularWeapon System with a mounting architecture flexible enough foradaptation to future rifles/carbines. The GLM should be capable offiring all current US standard 40x46mm low-velocity ammunition.

Additionally, it must accept munitions with longer payloads/warheads, which are unable to be loaded and fired in theM203 system. The GLM should weigh less, be more reliable, moreergonomic, more accurate, and safer than the M203. It should alsobe capable of mounting the AN/PSQ-18A Day/Night Sight.

TACOM awards Okay Industries a $3,110,006.22 contract option forthe production of 500,001 M16 thirty round magazines.

PM-Individual Weapons issues a market survey announcement to

identify possible sources of a force-on-force training simulator withthe capability of simulating the effects of the XM29 Air BurstWeapon System. The proposed solution must include the integrationof the HEAB simulation module with the current Modular IntegratedLaser Engagement System (MILES) used by the US Army for5.56mm weapons. The system selected must already be in

production to allow for the integration and test effort.

TACOM-ARDEC issues a solicitation for 6,000 to 42,000 M249 Accessory Rail Assembly kits. The Accessory Rail Assembly Kit willattach to the front part of the M249 Machine Gun and provide threeMIL-STD-1913 rails for mounting various optical devices andaccessories.

NSWC-Crane issues a sole-source solicitation to LMT for 500 rearsight assemblies and 500 rear sight tools.

PM-Soldier Weapons issues a sources sought notice for a Red DotWeapon Optic system to be used with the M4 MWS, M16A2, andM16A4. The device will be a non-magnifying, reflex sight with a 1 to4 MOA red dot reticule and manually adjustable brightness settings.

It will also contain an anti-reflection device to minimize glint, and bemountable on MIL-STD-1913 rail system. The optic must be able to

withstand the rigors of use in a military environment and stillmaintain zero. Battery life must be comparable to current M68 CCO.

NSWDG issues a solicitation for 120 J-Point mounting kits for the ACOG, and standard 1" and 30mm scopes. Each kit must contain a J-Point MRD and several mounts for attachment of the J-Point to thevarious host optics.

ACA-Fort Leonard Wood issues a solicitation for M4 and M249Simunition kits and accessories.



Steyr Mannlicher (M) Sdn Bhd introduces the AUG A3. The newvariant possesses accessory rails, an optional integrated 40mmgrenade launcher, and reportedly, a new magazine well/latchsystem that can interchangeably accept original AUG magazines andSTANAG-4179 compliant magazines. (This should not be confusedwith ADI's own AUG A3 project, which offers a differentconfiguration of accessory rails and modular assemblies. Update:

ADI has since renamed their AUG A3 as the F88A4.)

May: TACOM awards a $6,383,541.76 delivery order to FNMI for13,838 M16A4. These rifles are intended for the USMC.

TACOM awards a $5,728,534 delivery order to Colt for 6,013 M4 and42 M4A1. These are for the US Army, USMC, and FMS.

TACOM awards FNMI a $9,555,580 contract for the production of3,979 M249. These are intended for all four service branches.

NSWC-Crane issues a sole-source solicitation to Colt for 500-2,000M4A1 carbines equipped with the CQBR. An additional 500-5,000separate CQBR are also requested.

ARDEC issues a sole-source solicitation to Frontier PerformancePolymers Corporation for the fabrication of 100 5.56mm unprimed,one-piece plastic cartridge cases.

NSWC-Crane issues a solicitation for 93,000 to 2,500,000 5.56mmDim Tracer Cartridges.

NSWC-Crane issues a sole-source solicitation to Trijicon for 218Reflex Sights (RX01M4A1).

NSWC-Crane awards separate ECOS-C contracts to CanadianCommercial Corp. (ELCAN), EOTech, and Trijicon. The individualawards are worth up to $16,666,666 for a maximum of 66,666ECOS-C apiece. The EOTech sight is later relabeled the ECOS-CQB,with the official designation SU-231/PEQ. This leaves the ELCANSpecterDR (SU-230/PVS Articulated Telescope) and a productimproved Trijicon ACOG (SU-237/PVS Sight Unit) to compete for the

final ECOS-C downselect.

PM-Soldier Weapons issues a sources-sought notice for a COTSweapon optic system to be used with 5.56mm rifles. The optic must

possess the following characteristics: approximately 4x32mm, allowtarget engagement out to 800 meters, integral ballistic correctionfor range without external adjustment, Day/Night illuminationcapability (without use of batteries but NRC exempt), an AntiReflection Device, a Laser Filter Unit (or compatible to be fitted withLaser eye protection filters/goggles), MIL-STD-1913 rail systemcompatible, and able to withstand the rigors of use in a militaryenvironment.



TACOM issues a sole-source solicitation to Polymer Technologies for12,000 M249 100 Round Soft Pack Magazines.

TACOM-ARDEC issues a solicitation for up to 6,000 M249 AccessoryRail Assembly kits.

ACA-Fort Bliss issues a sole-source solicitation to SNC Technologiesfor M16A2, M249, and M9 conversion kits, M4/M16 conversion kitmagazines, marking cartridges, linked marking cartridges, and

protective gear.

Eric S. Kincel files a patent application for the design of the VltorMod Stock.

NSWC-Crane issues a solicitation for 40x46mm warning cartridges,with ranges of 100, 200, and 300 meters. Projected quantities runfrom 100 to 300,000 of each range offered.

ARMS, Inc.'s Richard E. Swan files a patent application for thecosmetic design of the M203 interface panels for the SIR.

KAC's Doug Olson and Reed Knight file a patent application for arising chamber, differential recoil firearm suitable for bothconventional and telescoped cartridges.

June: Twelve SCAR candidates from nine vendors are submitted toUSSOCOM for testing. Only limited information has been released bycertain vendors concerning their submitted prodcuts. For instance,the Robinson Armament XCR is disqualified at the start for the latereceipt of Blank Firing Adapters (BFA).

Funding for the XM8 R&D effort is increased to $7,400,000.

HK's Johannes Murello, Wilhelm Fischbach, Thomas Schweikart, andAlexander Stumpp file US patent applications for the cosmeticdesign and layout of the XM8 Carbine with the side-foldingadjustable stock, the Carbine with the XM320 attached, TheDesignated Marksman/Automatic Rifle variant, and the SpecialCompact variant with a flush collapsible buttstock.

TACOM awards a $45,902 delivery order to FNMI for 100 M16A4.

These rifles are intended for FMS. Later, TACOM awards anadditional $3,672.16 delivery order for 8 M16A4. The latter rifles areintended for the USMC.

TACOM orders FNMI to complete all future M249 Short Barrels with2.7mm gas ports instead of 3.17mm.

ACA-Fort Lewis issues a solicitation for 90 FAR M4 flattop upperreceivers w/ four integral rails, 4 rail gas block, and 16 inch chromeM4 contour barrel with 1/9 twist; 46 FAR M5 flattop upper receivers



with 4 integral rails, 4 rail gas block, and 20 inch HBAR Match (non-chromed) barrel with 1/9 twist; 136 Rock River N.M., two stage,non-adjustable trigger assemblies; and 46 flip-up front and rearsights.

AAI and General Dynamics Armament and Technical Productsindependently announce receiving contracts for Phase 1 of theLightweight Machine Gun and Ammunition (LMGA) program. AAIreceives $1.2 Million while GDATP receives $3 Million. GDATP's teamincludes KAC, who is tasked with weapon co-development andmanufacture.

ARDEC issues a solicitation for 2,000 to 11,000 40mm GrenadeLauncher Modules (GLM). The GLM must mount on the M4 ModularWeapon System with a mounting architecture flexible enough foradaptation to the M16A2/M16A4 along with future rifles/carbines.The GLM must also be adaptable to a stand-alone configuration. TheGLM should be capable of firing all current US standard 40x46mmlow-velocity ammunition. Additionally, it must accept improved

lethality munitions with longer payloads/warheads than current40x46mm munitions to accommodate system growth. The GLMshould be more reliable, more ergonomic, more accurate, and saferthan the M203. When removed and replaced, the GLM will return toits normal bore alignment regardless of the host weapon interface.The GLM must have a probability of hit (within a 5 meter radius) of60 percent at 100m, 50 percent at 200m, 30 percent at 300m, and20 percent at 400m. The GLM shall include a sight that provides dayand night targeting, and a secondary sight in the event the primarysight becomes inoperable or separated from the weapon. The GLMsystem must also have a range determination capability.

NSWC-Crane issues a sole-source solicitation to Nico Pyrotechnic for24,000 to 500,000 40x46mm grenade cartridges.

ARDEC's Non-Lethal/Scaleable Effects Team issues a sources-soughtnotice for consulting work on improvements to be made to the non-lethal muzzle launched ordnance (MLO) currently underdevelopment. The MLO is designed to be attached to the muzzle ofthe M4 carbine or M16 rifle. A blank cartridge is used to launch thenon-lethal payload. A bullet trap version is also in development.

Improvements to be made are to the reliability, safety, producibility,and ruggedness of the ordnance. The contractor will provide

recommendations for improvements and upon approval from ARDEC, provide updated manufacturing drawings as part of the USGovernment-owned Technical Data Package.

Picatinny awards a $1,010,851.50 contract to Defense TechnologiesCorp. for 84,568 40mm M1029 Crowd Dispersal Cartridges.

On behalf of the US Army, Wayne Stevens and Jeff Windham file a patent application for a shotgun barrel insert or replacement barrelfor 40x46mm grenade launchers. Unlike existing inserts, the design



will extract and eject the shotshell hull (instead of the completeinsert) once the weapon is opened.

The Army approves a requirements document for an accessoryshotgun system. It calls for a 12-gauge shotgun with door breachingand nonlethal/lethal capabilities built into a system that works withthe M4 MWS. The requirements document also calls for the ability tofire rounds that are either 2.75 or 3 inches long.

TACOM issues a sole-source solicitation to KAC for 25,000 M4 RAS,28,000 M5 RAS, and 9,300 M203 Quick Release Brackets.

TACOM increases its March 2004 contract award to HK by $41,667.This reflects a $1 price increase per magazine.

TACOM awards HK a $5,250,160 contract for 169,360 steel 30-round magazines with Maritime Finish. 155,000 of the magazinesare later diverted to NSWC-Crane.

TACOM awards a $135,033 contract option to Bestwork Industriesfor the Blind Inc. for 5,700 M16 MWS Sling Adapter Kits.


USCG Maintenance and Logistics Command-Atlantic issues a sole-source solicitation to the Simunition Division of SNC Technologies for12 M4 flattop 10.5" conversion kits, 5 M16A2 conversion kits, 20 M9conversion kits, FX marking cartridges, and protective gear.

USAF Air Education and Training Command, 37th CONS - Lackland AFB issues a solicitation for 20 M4 conversion kits, 160 M4conversion kit magazines, 20 M11 conversion kits, 10,000 each redand blue FX marking cartridges, and protective gear.

Abrams Airborne Manufacturing's (Vltor) Matthew J. Stoner, Cade L.Wilson, Gustavo T. Palacios, Jeffrey W. Henderson, and Gregg T.Mott file a patent application for the CASV accessory rail forearm.

Mid 2004: The Italian Ministry of Defence places a contract for at

least 24,000 Aimpoint CompM2.

July: Connecticut's Congressional delegation sends a letter to LesBrownlee, Acting Secretary of the Army, questioning why Colt hasbeen excluded from the Army's XM8 weapons program.

$25.9 million budgeted for XM8 production is cut from a FY 2005Department of Defense appropriations bill. Reportedly, an additional$1 million was budgeted to HK for the production of polymer-casedammunition.

TACOM awards a $783,088.12 delivery order to FNMI for 1,706



TACOM awards a $260,150 delivery order to Colt for 275 M4 for theUS Coast Guard. This is followed by a $107,260 delivery order for124 M4 for the USAF.

TACOM awards FNMI a contract option for 107 M249. The earlierorder is readjusted to give a net increase of $345,931. Once again,the majority appears to be earmarked for the USMC.

TACOM-ARDEC issues an open solicitation for 700,000 to 1,300,0005.56mm M862 Short Range Training Cartridges. In addition, therewill be yearly options through 2008 for an additional 700,000 to8,000,000 cartridges per year.

PM-Crew Served Weapons issues a market survey announcement forsources which can develop and demonstrate an alternative cartridgecase material for the family of small caliber cartridges (5.56mm upto .50 Cal.). The goal of this effort is to reduce cartridge weight byat least 20 percent by replacing the brass case with an alternativelightweight cartridge case. The assembled lightweight cartridge shall

match or exceed the current ballistic performance specificationsrequirements of the standard production brass cased ammunitionand be capable of being implemented into current manufacturingand final assembly process (i.e. primer & mouth sealant, propellantloading, linking, packaging etc.). The lightweight cartridge case isexpected to perform and survive the same environment astraditional brass casings in the currently fielded legacy machinegun(open bolt) and rifle (closed bolt) weapon systems.

ARDEC awards a $30,764 contract to Battelle Memorial Institute tostudy and store 40x46mm and 40x53mm Flash Bang grenades.

ARDEC's Non-Lethal/Scaleable Effects Team, Picatinny, NJannounces a sole-source solicitation to Mr. Frank Dindl, a seniormechanical engineer from the Weapons Systems Team, Light

Armament Division of RDECOM's Close Combat Armaments Center. As the owner of the Intellectual Property rights for the design inquestion, Mr. Dindl will perform consulting work regardingimprovements for a non-lethal, Muzzle Launched Ordnance (MLO)currently under development.

NSWC-Crane awards Litton Electro-Optical Systems and InsightTechnology $24,999,999 apiece for the development of the Image-

Intensified Clip-On Night Vision Device (CNVD-I2) and the Clip-OnNight Vision Device Thermal (CNVD-T), respectively. (These arelater type-classified under the designations AN/PVS-24 and SU-232/PAS.)

PM-Soldier Weapons issues a market survey announcement for aMachine Gun Weapon Optic System to be used with the M249, M60,and M240B. The device must have a magnification of 3.5x (+/-0.5x), contain a lighted reticle with adjustable brightness and bulletdrop compensation lines out to 1200 meters, and incorporate an



Anti Reflection Device and a Laser Filter Unit. The scope must bemountable on MIL-STD-1913 rail system, and maintain zeroretention during and after weapon firing. Power source must becommonly available or found on a standardized list of militarybatteries. Battery life must be comparable to the current M145Machine Gun Optic.

TACOM issues a solicitation for 3,000 M249 Improved Bipod Assemblies. In addition, there may be four subsequent options withthe potential of up to 6,000 additional Improved Bipod Assemblies

per option. The Improved Bipod Assembly must possess ruggedone-hand adjustable legs and a capability to adjust the firing

position of the weapon without moving the bipod legs. The ImprovedBipod Assembly legs must also be stowed and retained securelywithout interfering with either optical devices or other accessoriesmounted on the weapon's forward rail assembly.

ARDEC awards a $596,302.50 contract to TRI Technologies Inc. for15,000 M249 Accessory Rail Assembly Kits.

Optical Systems Technology files a GAO protest over the CNVD-I2award to Litton.

NSWC-Crane issues a sole-source solicitation to SNC Technologiesfor 142 FX M4A1 Conversion Kits, 45 FX P226 Adapter Kits, and 10Electric Breach Caps (T2E) system.

USAF Air Mobility Command, 62nd CONS - McChord AFB issues asolicitation for SNC Technologies FX equipment. This includes 15 M4flattop conversion kits, 150 M4/M16 conversion kit magazines, 15M9 conversion kits, FX marking cartridges, and protective gear.

On behalf of the US Army, Gary J. Houtsma receives US Patent #6,779,290 titled "Semi Permanent Backup Iron Sight."

Diemaco's David Compton receives US Patent #6,775,942 titled"Accessory Rail Mount Adapter for Rifles and Carbines."

September: The Army Deputy Chief of Staff G3 issues amemorandum, " Analysis Supporting Objective IndividualCombat Weapon (OICW) Increment I Milestone (MS) BDecision," to TRADOC, initiating an analysis of alternatives.

USMC Ground Board 2-04 convenes to review and revalidate thePOM-06 GCE ACL. Prioritized in third place is the Infantry CapabilitySet, which includes the Modular Weapon System and Rifle CombatOptics. The ninth priority item is the Automatic Rifle, a replacementfor the M249 in the infantry squad.

TACOM awards a $67,934.96 delivery order to FNMI for 148 M16A4.These rifles are intended for the US Army and FMS to Oman. Later,TACOM awards an additional $7344.32 delivery order for 16 M16A4.















The latter rifles are intended for the US Army and Federal Bureau ofPrisons.

TACOM awards a $2,349,340 delivery order to Colt for 2,716 M4 forthe USAF. This is followed by a $463,540 delivery order for 490 M4for the US Army National Guard, and another delivery order totaling$937,575 for 1,020 M4 and 15 M4A1 for the USAF, US Army CID,Federal Bureau of Prisons, and Department of Energy.

TACOM awards FNMI a $2,738,351 contract option for 847 M249.Later in the month, another 117 M249 are added for $378,261.

TACOM-ARDEC issues a market survey announcement to identifysources capable of providing a lubricous coating for critical smallarms weapon components. This coating is desired to eliminate theneed for wet lubrication. Currently, most weapon parts are steelcoated with either hard chrome or phosphate and maintained withwet lubrication. This potential coating is expected to function withoutneed for external lubrication in adverse conditions to include: sand,

dust, extreme cold (-65 degrees Fahrenheit), extreme heat (400-800 degrees Fahrenheit), rain, mud, salt water,Nuclear/Biological/Chemical (NBC) decontamination solvents, etc.The maximum operating temperature is dependent upon the weaponcomponent in question. The following characteristics should beaddressed as to how they well they perform with respect to hardchrome and phosphate: 1) Corrosion protection; 2) Abrasive andsliding wear resistance; 3) Adhesion to substrate; 4) Coefficient offriction; and 5) Coefficient of thermal expansion.

ARDEC issues a sole-source solicitation to Colt for 63 M4A1Carbines. Sixty will have a coating of Nickel Boride applied to theindividual components of the weapon. The remaining three M4A1Carbines will be manufactured and delivered using the currentanodizing and phosphate coatings.

US Army Field Support Command issues a solicitation for a second-source prime contractor capable of producing up to 500 millionrounds annually of small caliber ammunition: 5.56mm, 7.62mm and.50 caliber ball, tracer, and blank.

NSWC-Crane issues a solicitation for 1,002,040 to 6,363,200 Mk 294Mod 0 Moly Coated USMC Special Match Cartridges.

ARDEC's AETC publishes "Soft Target Terminal BallisticsEvaluation of the M855 5.56mm Projectile."

The ARL publishes the report "Finite Element Modeling and Analysis of an M855 Cartridge." The goal of the research was todevelop and validate a baseline mechanical model for a brass M855cartridge during realistic firing conditions. The results were validatedwith experimental measurements from expended M855 cartridgesand showed good correlation with the predicted plastic deformation



of the model. The creation of the validated model serves as aplatform from which alternative lightweight materials for thecartridge case can be evaluated analytically.

Lake City issues the report "Trajectory Match, Jump, and ErrorBudgets for M855 ."

Under contract to the ARL, Arrow Tech Associates publishes "FinalReport of the 5.56 mm In Bore Balloting Analysis."

DOD Washington Headquarters Services issues a solicitation for 15HK G36K with 15 spare 100 round magazines, 5 M24 sniper rifles,and 75 HK UMP40 SMG with 250 spare 30 round magazines.

The Philippine Armed Forces sign a contract for 1,739 FN Minimiworth P593.3 million.

ARDEC issues another solicitation for the 40mm Grenade LauncherModule (GLM). As an approved Soldier Enhancement Program

system item, the GLM must be COTS/NDI, ready for use or requiringonly minimal modification (expected modifications are sights andrifle/carbine integration). The base contract will order 60 systemsfor developmental testing. This contract will also contain twooptions: the first option for 500 to 2000 systems, and the secondoption for up to 9000 systems.

NSWC-Crane issues a sources-sought announcement for multi- purpose, long-range, programmable 40mm air-bursting ammunition.The ammunition must be safely employed from a shoulder-firedgrenade launcher. Desired is a HEDP warhead weighing ~250 gramslaunched at a velocity of ~100 meters per second. (This contrasts tostandard 40x46mm Low Velocity ammo which launches a ~180g

projectile at 76m/s, but not nearly as fast as the 40x53mm HighVelocity round used in the Mk 19 Mod 3 and other crew-servedGMG.) The additional mass and velocity will help extend themaximum range to 600 meters versus the typical 400m range of the40x46mm. In addition, this provide the side benefits of reducing thetime of flight and giving a flatter trajectory. The programmable fusemust possess three specific detonation modes: 1) Air-Burst Mode forenemy troops in open or defilade, 2) Impact Mode for light to

medium armored vehicles and barriers, and 3) Delay Mode for firingthrough windows or other light barriers. Impact mode will be the

default if not otherwise set. The fuse must also have an inherentSelf Destruct Mode with a factory-set time delay that will cause thewarhead to detonate if any of the programmable modes fail. Finally,the round sought must operate in all Special Operations Forcesenvironments, to include submersion in up to 66 feet in seawater.Nammo just happens to be working on such a programmable,medium velocity 40mm round with most of the desiredcharacteristics. It has been developed for the Swedish SquadSupport Weapon (SSW) project, the Nordic answer to the OICW andthe French PAPOP. This is not to say that NSWC-Crane is necessarily



interested in the SSW. They are more likely viewing it with an eyetoward use in the EGLM as part of the Enhanced Indirect FireMunitions (EIFM) project.

TACOM issues a sole-source solicitation to FNMI for 11,000 M249Short Barrels.

TACOM-ARDEC issues a solicitation for a "reliable, durable" XM26Modular Accessory Shotgun System (MASS) to provide doorbreaching, lethal, and non-lethal capability during CQB operations.The MASS will attach to a primary weapon (M16A2, M16A4, M4, orM4A1), with the potential for attachment to future rifles andcarbines. The MASS must be capable of being removed or attachedto the primary weapon without the use of tools while maintainingbore alignment with the primary weapon's sights. The MASS mustalso be capable of use as a stand alone shotgun, with a sightingsystem and an integrated (or attachable) MIL-STD-1913 rail for theattachment of various accessories. The MASS will be manually orsemi-automatically operated and capable of firing all current U.S.

Army standard 12 Gauge Ammunition. The base contract willcomprise 50 systems for use in developmental testing. Follow-onoptions will include up to 5,000 systems per year for 6 years.

TACOM modifies its June 2004 solicitation to KAC for an additional10,000 M4 RAS Upper Hand Guard Assemblies and 16,000 each M5RAS Upper Hand Guard Assemblies.

TACOM-ARDEC issues a solicitation for an initial quantity of 3,920M249 Collapsible Buttstock Assemblies. In addition, there may betwo subsequent options with a potential of 1,000 to 4,000Collapsible Buttstock Assemblies per option.

TACOM awards FNMI a $3,543,896.77 contract option for 7,841M249 Short Barrels.

TACOM-ARDEC issues a solicitation for an initial quantity of 6,100M249 Forward Pistol Grip Assemblies. In addition, there may be foursubsequent options with a potential of 6,000 to 12,000 ForwardPistol Grip Assemblies per option.

TACOM-ARDEC issues a solicitation for an initial quantity of fifty200-Round Soft Pack Magazines for the M249. This includes a future

option for 3,000 to 9,000 Soft Pack Magazines.


USSOCOM issues a sole-source solicitation to SNC Technologies for43 M4A1 and 30 M9 FX conversion kits.

ACA-Fort Campbell issues a sole-source solicitation to ARMS for 350 ARMS #50C Slimline Bi-Level SIR Systems and 350 ARMS #40L Flip



Up Rear Sights.

ACA-Fort Campbell issues a solicitation for CQB Muzzle Brake SoundSuppressors: OPS 15th Model CQB MBS or equal. The suppressorsmust have the following characteristics: 5.56mm/.223 caliber; 1.5inch diameter; 3.5 inch (max) length past muzzle brake; 7.25 inchoverall length (max); weight 17 ounces (max); fusion welded 300series stainless steel construction; sound attenuation 30db orbetter; and endurance meets SOPMOD objective at 30,000 roundsunder various firing schedules.

Naval Special Warfare Group 1 issues a pair of solicitations for 150Simunition Colt M4 Conversion Kits and 921 M16/M4 conversion kit20 round magazines.

USAF Air Mobility Command, 22nd CONS - McConnell AFB issues asolicitation for 14 Simunition M4 flattop conversion kits, 20 M16/M4conversion kit magazines, 25 M9 conversion kits, FX markingcartridges, and protective gear. This solicitation is later cancelled.

USAF Materiel Command, 377th CONS - Kirtland AFB issues a sole-source solicitation to SNC Technologies for 40 each of M4 and M9conversion kits, and protective gear.

USSOCOM issues a sole-source solicitation to EOTech for 134 Model550 Holosights with the 2D standard reticule pattern.

ARMS' Richard Swan files a patent application for a low-profile,spring-loaded, flip-up, backup iron sight.

Colt's Vincent Battaglia receives US Patent #6,792,711 titled"Firearm Adapter Rail System."

Upon request by HK, the German Army Materiel Commanddesignates the UCP as the P46.

October: The JSSAMP is updated yet again.

The House of Representatives Conference Report 108-773 directsthe Army to report to the Congressional Defense committees not

later than November 15, 2004, on plans to begin fielding the XM8family of weapons.

The Army Requirements Oversight Council (AROC) approves theOICW Increment I CDD.

TACOM awards a $8,142,820 delivery order to Colt for 8,309 M4 forthe US Army, Federal Bureau of Prisons, and FMS.

At Fort Benning, the USAMU conducts the first SDM course forsoldiers of the 3rd Infantry Division and 82nd Airborne Division.









The National Small Arms Center issues a source-soughtannouncement for research proposals. The proposals cover threeResearch Areas: New Metal Coating Technology for GreaselessWeapons, Anti-Materiel Sniper Rifle (AMSR) and 5.56mm PolymerCased Ammunition.

TACOM awards a $227,424 contract option to Bestwork Industriesfor the Blind Inc. for 9,600 M16 MWS Sling Adapter Kits.

TACOM issues a solicitation notice for the procurement of Back UpIron Sight (BUIS) for the M16A4, M4, and M4A1. A minimum of6,000 units is guaranteed over a five year period.

Iran's Defense Industries Organization (DIO) unveils an indigenously produced 5.56mm bullpup assault rifle, designated the KH-2002.Some observers have noted that the lower receiver appears to bethat of a M16.

HK begins development of a subcompact variant of the UCP/P46.

November: USSOCOM awards FN a contract for the SCAR andEGLM. The first delivery order is worth $634,390. The SCAR-L,SCAR-H, and EGLM subsequently receive the tentative designationsEX 16 Mod 0, EX 17 Mod 0, and EX 13 Mod 0 respectively. The onlyinfo released by FN indicates that their weapon uses a short-strokegas system and a metal receiver.

ARDEC issues a sources-sought announcement for a Non-Developmental, multi-configurable, 5.56mm modular weaponsystem. The system shall consist of four variants to include: SpecialCompact (SC), Carbine, Designated Marksman (DM), and LightMachine Gun (LMG). All variants need to function in both semi-automatic and automatic firing modes, with the LMG's primary firingmode being full auto.

Requirements Special

Compact Carbine

DesignatedMarksman

Light

Machine

Gun

Commonality 80% 80% 80% 50%

Accuracy:Probability of Hit

40% at100m(MovingTarget)

60% at150m(MovingTarget)

50% at500m(StationaryTarget)

4% at

600m(6rdBurst:Hits onSingleTargetout of 8TargetArray)

Effective Range 150m 500m 600m 600m



Mean RoundsBetweenEssentialFunction Failure(MRBEFF): ClassIII

18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000

Mean RoundsBetweenEssentialFunction Failure(MRBEFF): ClassI and II

2,300 2,300 2,300 1,900

MinimumPractical Rate ofFire (rpm)

45(Semi)

45(Semi)

45 (Semi)72(Auto)

Maximum Weight NA 8.11lbs 9.39lbs 18.5lbs

Maximum Length 29.75" 33.0" 39.6" 40.75"

Basis of Issue 20% 60% 10% 10%

Other features include a Multi-Purpose Sighting System (MPSS)capable of precision fire out to the desired effective range of theweapon, yet fast enough to allow successful engagement of a 50mtarget within 1.5 seconds. Back-up sights are required which allowfor the engagement of targets out to 300m without removal of theMPSS. In addition, the weapons shall include limited visibility firecontrol with an infrared aim light and illuminator. The weapons must

be compatible with all standard 5.56mm NATO ammunition includingthe Mk 262 Special Ball. The weapons shall be ambidextrous withrespect to: the selector switch, charging handle/forward assist,magazine release, and bolt catch. Furthermore, ejected cartridgesmust not be channeled to the rear as this can interfere with use byleft handed shooters. The weapon must possess an adjustable stockwhich can accommodate all users between the 5th and 95thpercentile in size. Minimum barrel life shall be no less than 15,000rounds. The flash hider should minimize dust signature and act as amuzzle brake. It should also allow for a no-tools attachment of asound suppressor. Attachment points are desired for the mountingof a 40mm grenade launcher or a 12 gauge shotgun. The LMG shallprovide for a quick-change barrel capable of replacement in under30 seconds while under combat conditions. The LMG barrel shall alsoprovide the operator a visible means of determining cautionary heatlevels. In a swipe at Colt's sole-source status for the M4 Carbine,data rights are demanded for the purpose of competitive biddingand second-source contracting.

TACOM awards a $19,860 delivery order to Colt for 20 M4A1.

The Army Deputy Chief of Staff (G3) tasks the Soldier Battle Lab to



diameter and weighing 1.3 grams.

December: At FN Herstal in Belgium, USSOCOM representativesconduct the first critical design review for the SCAR since the awardof the contract. During a period of three days, the developmentteam works side-by-side with Operators for an iterative designprocess. Operators test the weapons on the range to gauge theinitial capabilities of the weapons which they had previously outlinedin the requirements. The development team is then able to makeimmediate changes and improvements to prototypes and designs.Suggested areas for improvement and change include:

Safety lever changes

Magazine release protectors

Trigger reset

Pistol grip design

Bolt release protectors

Charging handle design

Sling attachment points

Color change from black to neutral

Upon conclusion, FN delivers a modified mockup prototype within24-hours based on the feed-back received. In addition, the firstSCAR-H prototype is unveiled and tested. Based upon the progressmade so far, the decision is made to condense and accelerate theprogram increments to the following: 1) Development of the SCAR-L

(with integrated EGLM) and the SCAR-H for concurrent fielding; 2)Ensure EGLM compatibility; 3) Production of the SCAR in EnhancedCalibers as directed by USSOCOM and the Integrated Product Team.Development of the EGLM to use Fuse Programmable Ammunition;4) Continue development of SCAR and EGLM capabilities.

TACOM-ARDEC announces a solicitation for 3,800,000 to 34,565,539M862 Short Range Training Cartridges.

Portugal's Ministry of Defense announces that it is accepting bids for31,000 5.56mm rifles and 1,700 light machineguns in a deal worth75 Million Euros. Bids are expected from Swiss Arms (formerly SIG),

FN, HK, Colt, IMI, Steyr, Diemaco, and Singapore TechnologiesKinetics.

The USCG issues a solicitation for 4,500 M16 thirty round

magazines.

TACOM announces a sole-source solicitation to FNMI for 15,300M249 Short Barrels.

NSWC-Crane announces changes to the RIS II specification. A rigid



or monolithic interface system is desired which will allow for a free-floating carbine barrel, yet withstand the shock of firing all currentlyfielded 40mm rounds, and maintain zero repeatability whenaccessories are removed and remounted. While MIL-STD-1913 railsare still required, alternative intermediate or supplemental interfaceswill be considered if they will allow the EGLM and other lower railsubsystems to be mounted as closely to the carbine barrel as

possible without touching it. The solicitation is still limited to vendorswho had previously submitted proposals for the RIS II.

NSWC-Crane also announces changes to the ITPIAL II solicitation.The proposed maximum quantity is reduced from 41,666 to 25,018.Later in the month, NSWC-Crane awards a $48,997,789.28 contractto Insight Technologies for 25,018 ITPIAL II . In part due to the factthat it meets the requirements for both the ITPIAL II and CVL II, thedevice is later renamed the ATPIAL (Advanced Target Pointer,Illuminator, and Aiming Laser). It is given the formal designationLA-5/PEQ. (This is eventually changed to AN/PEQ-15.)

TACOM awards Center Industries a $10,821,250 contract option forthe production of 1,375,000 M16 thirty round magazines.

TACOM awards Okay Industries a $4,043,000 contract option for the production of 650,000 M16 thirty round magazines.

TACOM awards KAC a $163,560.00 contract for 4,000 M249 ForwardPistol Grips.

Norgon, LLC's Robert H. Garrett and Sandy A. Garrett, Jr. file a patent application for the Ambi-Catch ambidextrous magazinerelease for the M16 family.

PM-Crew Served Weapons issues a sources-sought announcementfor a NDI 40mm short-range anti-personnel shotgun-type cartridge.The cartridge must be compatible with the M203 Grenade launcher,can be fired quickly without precise aiming, and have a high

probability of producing casualties. The cartridge must demonstratea lethal anti-personnel capability out to a maximum range of 50meters (75 meters desired). A minimum casualty level of 30 percentkill probability is required at the maximum effective range against

standing men under the 30-second defense / 100 percentincapacitation casualty criterion. The physical and functional

characteristics of the cartridge will be compared to the capability ofthe current 40mm, Multiple Projectile, M576 Cartridge. If enoughcredible interest is generated, a Foreign Comparative Test (FCT) orSoldier Enhancement Program (SEP) may follow.

PM-Crew Served Weapons also issues a sources-soughtannouncement for a NDI short-range anti-personnel shotgun-typerifle grenade cartridge that is compatible with the M4 and M16. Therifle grenade must be a muzzle launched system that uses standardcombat ammunition. The grenade must be fired quickly and not



require an adapter for use. It will be used in crowd suppression inurban areas and is intended for brief, short-range firefights withrestricted fields of fire. The grenade must be able to demonstrate alethal anti-personnel capability against multiple targets out to amaximum range of 50 meters. It must be compatible with allcurrently used mounted accessories such as sights, rail systems,and optics. In addition, the grenade may not degrade the

performance or the useful life of the host weapons. If enoughcredible interest is generated, a Foreign Comparative Test (FCT) orSoldier Enhancement Program (SEP) may follow.

HK's Jurgen Gablowski receives US Patent #6,829,858 titled"Grenade Launchers and Methods to Secure a Grenade Launcher toa Firearm."

(Next: 5.56mm 2005)

by Daniel E. Watters, Small Arms Historian

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the 5.56 x 45mm - 2004 - a chronology of development (part 15) - by daniel watters

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