Report

Grayburn: The UK’s future small arms requirements

This report from UK think tank RUSI provides a comprehensive framework for selecting a new service rifle that will underpin the UK’s future fighting capability.

This paper is a pivotal analysis of the British military’s requirements for a new standard rifle, shaping the future of UK defence capability and operational effectiveness. It delivers actionable insights for defence professionals, policymakers and industry stakeholders by evaluating the trade-offs and design priorities necessary to replace the ageing L85A3 service rifle.

Key Recommendations

Prioritise operational requirements over NATO standardisation: The UK should select rifle calibre and design based on its own tactical needs, rather than aligning with diverging NATO standards.

Optimise for suppression at 400 m and lethality within 150 m: The new rifle must reliably suppress targets at longer ranges and deliver decisive effects in close combat, reflecting modern battlefield realities.

Balance kinetic performance, accuracy, ergonomics and capacity: No single rifle can maximise all attributes. The chosen design must carefully weigh trade-offs to suit complex terrain, closed positions and vehicle operations.

Ensure reliability and maintainability: The rifle should be robust, simple to maintain and suitable for rapid scaling in wartime, with sovereign UK manufacturing capacity for both weapon and ammunition.

Tailor accessories and barrel lengths for different user groups: While the base rifle should meet close combat requirements, modularity allows adaptation for the Royal Navy, the RAF, Cadets and non-combat arms.

Address legal and ethical considerations: Performance requirements must be determined first, then reviewed for compliance with international humanitarian law, especially regarding ammunition types.

Communicate trade-offs transparently to users: The British military must clearly explain the rationale behind design choices to build confidence and ensure the rifle fits within a coherent combined arms system.

This research, grounded in recent combat data and expert interviews, provides a comprehensive framework for selecting a new service rifle that will underpin the UK’s future fighting capability. It is essential reading for those shaping defence procurement and operational doctrine.