Steyr AUGs of the Falkland Islands Defense Force

Published on January 8, 2025
Duration: 14:11

This entry details the Steyr AUG variants and unique modifications employed by the Falkland Islands Defense Force (FIDF), as presented by firearms expert Ian McCollum. It covers the rationale behind their selection over the British L85A1, the specific configurations procured (standard rifle, carbine, LSW), and notable features like the modified three-position safety selector and integrated optics. The use of Simrad night vision and the LSW's heavy barrel and bipod are also highlighted, alongside the FIDF's eventual transition to the L85A2 for training compatibility.

Quick Summary

The Falkland Islands Defense Force (FIDF) adopted the Steyr AUG in 1992, replacing their 7.62 SLR rifles due to the British L85A1's poor reliability in the harsh Falkland environment. They procured standard rifles, carbines, and LSW variants, featuring unique safety modifications and integrated optics, before transitioning to the L85A2 for training compatibility.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to FIDF and the Steyr AUG
  2. 01:42Selection and Testing
  3. 03:13Procurement and Variants
  4. 05:45Optics and Magazines
  5. 07:36Unique Safety Modification
  6. 08:32LSW and Night Vision
  7. 12:04Current Status and Transition

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the Falkland Islands Defense Force choose the Steyr AUG over the British L85A1?

The FIDF selected the Steyr AUG in 1992 after rigorous testing revealed significant reliability and durability issues with the early British L85A1, opting for the Austrian rifle's robustness in the harsh Falkland environment.

What were the different configurations of the Steyr AUG used by the FIDF?

The FIDF procured approximately 160 Steyr AUGs, comprising 75% standard rifles, 15% carbines for specialized roles, and 10% Light Support Weapons (LSW) to replace FN MAG machine guns.

What unique safety modification did the FIDF implement on their Steyr AUGs?

FIDF Steyr AUGs featured a distinctive three-position cross-bolt safety selector, offering Safe, Semi-only, and Progressive Full-auto modes to prevent accidental full-auto discharge by inexperienced personnel.

Why is the FIDF transitioning away from the Steyr AUG to the L85A2?

After 30 years of service, the FIDF is adopting the British L85A2 primarily for training compatibility, specifically to utilize British bullet-trap blank firing adapters, which the Steyr AUG platform cannot accommodate.

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