Thales is working on a 6.8mm weapon.

The Australians are also quietly working on developing new weapons: The Army headquarters wants a domestic 6.8mm weapon system to be developed on-site that can compete with the selected NGSW solution as part of Tranche 2 of Land 159. This means that the US Army's search for "Next Generation Squad Weapon" is leading to exciting projects Down Under as well. Maybe the photo will also inspire someone at Steyr Arms to develop a new weapon. The project's resemblance to an AUG/EF88/F90 is because it is being built in Lithgow, where the current Australian assault rifle also comes from.

The goal of the development work being carried out by Thales in Lithgow is to produce a weapon and ammunition package developed in Australia that is comparable to the preferred NGSW design. One of the US developers – General Dynamics/Lone Star Future Weapons also focuses on Bullpup as the future. The new weapon, according to Thales, would initially equip close combatants in infantry, tank, and artillery units, while soldiers in support roles would continue to use the F90 in 5.56mm caliber. There will also be a support weapon, presumably with a 50-round drum magazine.

As part of the CCFOW work, Thales is developing a one-piece 6.8mm cartridge made from a material that is "more advanced than conventional brass" and can withstand higher pressures better. There will be high-performance ammunition and armor-piercing ammunition, maybe even a type referred to as "Supershot."

The rifle will be configured as a Bullpup and will have specifications from the NGSW program, including a maximum length of 965mm, a maximum weight of 4.1kg without a magazine, and an integrated suppressor function. All of this is currently in the detailed planning phase. However, the first shot from such a weapon is expected to be fired this month.

More about the new weapons program of the US Army: NGSW PROGRAM ADVANCES

LITHGOW ARMS online