Thales Unveils Ambidextrous NATO Interoperable Military Assault Rifle

Thales has unveiled a new generation ambidextrous and NATO interoperable military assault rifle, the F90MBR – Modular Bullpup Rifle.

The F90MBR is the new generation of the F90 assault rifle, currently in service with the Australian Defence Force, the company said in a statement Tuesday.

The F90MBR is 3.25 kg, and is fitted with ambidextrous controls to enable fast reaction times and rapid target engagement. Features include availability in multiple barrel lengths, fully-ambidextrous forward bolt and magazine release controls, and a ‘drop free’ magazine release function to facilitate even faster magazine changes, regardless of the hand-dominance of the firer.

The F90MBR safely accommodates off-handed shooting techniques through the use of a case deflector, and can be easily modified by the operator without tools to a dedicated left or right handed ejecting weapon.

The weapon’s open architecture incorporates a NATO tri-rail system and magazine compatibility to ensure interoperability with existing NATO weapons. It is able to be packaged with multiple barrels, and compatible optics, accessories and ancillaries with Grab Case, allowing an operator to quickly transition between different tactical employments of the weapon system.

‘Over The Beach’ capability means it is well suited for use by amphibious forces. Soldiers can swim with the weapon, and fire immediately after emerging from the water.

The F90, and now the F90MBR, set the benchmark for accuracy and reliability in small arms to support soldiers in operations.

 “The F90MBR is compatible with existing NATO weapons and ammunition offers a cost-effective upgrade with a substantial degree of future-proofing. The new generation weapon is evolved from F90 Assault Rifle,” said Chris Jenkins, CEO Thales in Australia.