The Steyr AUG - civilian designation Steyr Army Universal Rifle, introduced in 1977 in the Austrian Federal Army - is not a new weapon, but a very good one. In the Federal Army, the assault rifle 77 (StG77) in the latest version A2 Commando is used, among others, by the 25th Hunter Battalion - visit the homepage - in Klagenfurt and also by the Commando Unit. Today we present the assault rifle of the Austrian airborne troops on SPARTANAT.

The A2 Commando version of the assault rifle is a suitable weapon for specialized troops. Modernity combined with the known robustness and simplicity of the weapon.

The A2 Commando version differs from the standard armament in the Federal Army (StG77 A1) in several ways. Relevant for handling and use are:

• Improved optical sight with MilDots and triple magnification for engaging targets up to 400m for the infantryman
• Reflex sight (Comp3 model) in daylight and infrared range for engaging targets up to 200m
• Tactical Laser Light Module (TLLM) with illumination and laser point adjustable in daylight and infrared range
• Bolt catch lever for faster reloading
• Movable charging handle
• Shorter design

The StG77 A2 Commando, here with all attachments, has a compact design of 710mm. The weight with a full magazine and attachments is 5.4kg, the caliber is 5.56mm, and there are magazines with space for 30 and 42 rounds.

With these innovations, it is an adequate weapon for the well-trained soldier. The reflex sight allows the target to be acquired and engaged in the shortest time. Aim error is almost eliminated. Equally easy is the quick acquisition and aiming with the TLLM. This can be adjusted to the needs of the operation: during the day with switchable or permanent laser point, and at night with daylight marker with switchable or permanent laser point.

The reflex sight is used for quickly acquiring the target through laser target marking. Engagement range up to about 200m. The brightness can be adjusted in 10 levels with the knob. A glare shield can be folded down at the sight to prevent glare.

The optical sight is also a significant combat enhancement and improves the soldier's accuracy. Reloading is done with a few simple steps by changing the magazine and pressing the bolt catch lever. The movable charging handle avoids damage when laying down the weapon and facilitates silent loading. The shorter design is particularly advantageous in urban combat.

The adjustment of the TLLM is adapted to the shooter's needs with the three buttons of the module. Daylight, infrared, and laser point settings in various configurations.

However, there is no advantage without disadvantage. Modernization results in a need for more training and practice with the weapon to take advantage of its capabilities and avoid possible damage. The weapon with attachments is about 0.8kg heavier than the standard version.

The muzzle brake: It serves to camouflage the firing signature of the weapon, especially optically. The suppressor is also needed when shooting with night vision devices. Without the muzzle brake, the shooter's glare would be considerable.

Accessory includes a muzzle brake. This obscures the firing signature, especially optically. When shooting with night vision goggles, the glare of the shooter is thus avoided. However, the weapon becomes more front-heavy as a result.

The charging handle is built to be movable. Quiet loading is done by flipping up the handle.

CONCLUSION: The StG77A2 Commando version is a balanced compromise between modernity and the simplicity of the standard version of the assault rifle. This version is suitable for specialized and professionalized troops. Continuous training with the weapon is essential to fully utilize the weapon's capabilities.

Text: Ulf Remp, Photos: Scharmüller

View of the buttstock, with the bolt catch lever at the back for faster reloading. When pressure is applied, the bolt is released and loads the new cartridge.

The 25th Hunter Battalion

The 25th Hunter Battalion is stationed in the Khevenhüller Barracks in Lendorf in Klagenfurt am Wörthersee. As the only airborne unit in the Federal Army, the battalion fulfills a wide range of tasks at home and abroad. This is made possible by comprehensive infantry and specialized training. The unit has specially trained soldiers who are trained for airborne operations.

The training areas include not only the classic Hunter training but also airborne and parachute training in close cooperation with helicopters, as well as training for deployments abroad, close combat training, explosives and alpine training.

The 25th Hunter Battalion on the Internet: www.jgb25.at

The 25th Hunter Battalion on Facebook: www.facebook.com/jgb25

Combat demonstration on National Day 2015 in Vienna. The blank firing device (light blue) on the front of the rifle allows training with blank ammunition.