Way back in 2017 the Army decided to purchase just over 6,000 Squad Designated Marksman versions of the M110A1 Compact Semi Auto Sniper System. Specifically, this directed requirement from the Army staff called for the G28E Rifle which CSASS is based upon, and is used by the German Bundeswehr.
Although the First Article Testing was problematic due to the Army attempting to shoot M80A1 ammunition from a Rifle specifically designed to shoot M118 LR, it’s now all been worked out.
But for some reason, manufacturer Heckler & Koch felt compelled to issue a new press release entitled, “Heckler & Koch to supply new US Army Squad Designated Marksman Rifle.” Granted, they added in a bunch of other contracts, but this isn’t anything new. I suppose it was in response to the ridiculous recent claims that they were going out of business.
July 15, 2019
Ashburn, Virginia —Heckler & Koch Defense Inc. is gearing up to deliver between 5,000 and 6,000 complete rifle weapon systems to the US Amy, which plans to deploy them as M110A1 Squad Designated Marksman Rifles (SDMR).
The new HK rifle is a variant of the 7.62 mm G28/HK417. Under terms of the agreement, the rifles, which are manufactured by HK in Oberndorf, Germany will begin to arrive in the HK-USA facility in Columbus, GA early next year. There, HK-USA workers will install scopes and mounts purchased by the Army under a separate agreement. Additionally, HK-USA staff will kit the scoped rifles with additional accessories from 12 other US-based manufacturers to round out the complete SDMR weapon system delivered to the Army. Heckler & Koch will also provide spare parts, support, and training.
“This is a significant achievement for Heckler & Koch,” HK-USA COO/CSO Michael Holley said. “The HK SDMR system will add much-needed capabilities to virtually every squad in the Army. We are honored by this opportunity.”
Holley also added that this award, combined with the recent USMC M27 purchase, as well as several other international contracts, further solidifies Heckler & Koch’s position as one of the world leaders in small arms development.
Beyond the SDMR, recent HK major contracts of record include:
US Marine Corps – M27 Rifle
US Army – CSASS/SDMR Rifle
Berlin Police – SFP 9(VP 9) pistol
Bavarian State Police – SFP 9(VP 9) pistol
French Army – 416 Rifle
British Army – SA80 upgrade
About Heckler & Koch
Heckler & Koch is the world’s premier small arms systems company and a major supplier to global military, law enforcement agencies, and civilian shooters. An innovative leader in design and manufacturing, Heckler & Koch provides technologically advanced firearms, logistical support, training, and specialized services with the highest standards of innovation and reliability to its customer base. Heckler & Koch’s well-known range of products include the USP series pistols, MP5 submachine gun, the MP7 Personal Defense Weapon, the G36 weapon system, the HK416 enhanced carbine, HK45, P30, and most recently VP series pistols.
