New weapon sought for the KSK

It's official! The German special forces want a new "Special Forces Assault Rifle." And quickly: The requirement is to purchase a total of 1,705 units from September 2017 to June 2019. Here are the requirements for the new tool for KSK and KSM, as published by the Strategy & Technology Blog:

1. Caliber 5.56 x 45 NATO
2. Fully automatic gas-operated
3. Double-sided operation
4. Signature suppressor
5. STANAG 4694 rails on handguard and weapon top
6. Length without signature suppressor maximum 900mm
7. Deployment in areas with climate categories A1-3, B1-3, C0-2 and M1-3 according to STANAG 4370 without functional limitations
8. Housing lifetime minimum 30,000 shots; Barrel lifetime minimum 10,000 shots
9. Maximum 3.8 kg total weight without magazine and optics
10. Accessories like laser module, baton flashlight, and carrying equipment
In addition to the 1,705 series models, five product samples and another 40 verification samples should be delivered beforehand.

Many are probably hoping for the internationally highly regarded HK416 model from Heckler & Koch - above is an American DEVGRU member with his HK416. We will eagerly follow who will participate in the tender. It is particularly exciting that special forces may receive their own weapon, as the entire G36 is supposed to be replaced in the German army later on.