Some future weapons programs may be accelerated, Beal said. But at 15 pounds unloaded, the EBR is heavy, so the service will likely search for a new rifle to fill the requirement, Army weapons officials say. Since 2009, the Army has equipped squad designated marksmen with the Enhanced Battle Rifle, or EBR, 14 - a modernized M14 equipped with a Sage International adjustable aluminum stock with pistol grip a Leupold 3.5x10 power scope and Harris bipod legs. Daniel Allyn issued a directed requirement for a new 7.62mm squad designated marksman rifle. The Army plans to field the M3A1 with an integrated fire-control system, Beal said.Īdditionally, Army Vice Chief of Staff Gen. The new system is also more ergonomic and features a cable system running along the top of the weapon to make it compatible with future battlefield technology, such as intelligent sighting systems for programmable ammunition, according to Saab officials. The weight savings comes from a titanium liner and carbon-fiber wrapping, Saab officials said. It weighs 15 pounds and measures 39 3/8 inches long. The new M3A1 is significantly lighter and shorter than the M3.

The breech-loading M3 can reach out and hit enemy targets up to 1,000 meters away. The M3 weighs 22 pounds and measures 42 inches long.

The Army began ordering the M3 for conventional infantry units to use in Afghanistan in 2011. The 75th Ranger Regiment and other special operations forces began using the M3 MAAWS in 1991. Saab Defense unveiled this latest version of its 84mm weapon system in 2014.

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