Seeking to replace the bullpup L85A2 assault rifles in British Royal Marine Commandos service, the U.K. has turned to the AR-15 based KAC’s KS-1/L403A1 rifle.
While L85A2 and its derivatives have served the U.K. troops for years, the rifle is comparable to full-power battle rifles in terms of weight and is not user-friendly. This has driven the MoD to seek a replacement that not only addresses these issues but also ensures commonality with NATO members in terms of interface.
According to Army recognition, the answer was found as KAC’s KS-1 or L403A1 as designated by the British Armed Forces. KS-1 chambered in 5.56x45 mm is based on the proven AR-15 design with improvements in reliability for the gas system.
The equipment for L403A1 in the Royal Marines is somewhat parallel with the US Army’s NGSW equipment (but less extravagant) with a 1-10x scope and compact suppressor.
A similar trend in the modernisation of the ground forces can be observed in the Challenger 3 MBT, a NATO-fication of the Challenger 2 MBT, in addition to upgrades with a 120 mm L55 smoothbore gun replacing the 120 mm rifled one.
