The team here have been busy supporting our defence equipment manufacturing customers globally. Over the last few years, a segment that has intrigued me is the manufacture and supply of firearms of all specifications and applications. So, I thought I would share insights over the next week or two. Starting with this announcement....
Well done team Colt Canada!
The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) is pleased to announce the renewal of its contract with Colt Canada Corporation for the provision of C8 rifle spares and accessories. This contract, valued at £4 million, will commence on 8 August 2025 and last for an initial two years, with options to extend for another three years.
Background on the Original Supply Contract
The C8 rifle, designated as the L119A1/A2 in British service, was first adopted by UK Special Forces (UKSF) in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Manufactured by Colt Canada (formerly Diemaco), the C8 replaced older models such as the M16 and C7, becoming the standard assault rifle for elite units including:
- Special Air Service (SAS)
- Special Boat Service (SBS)
- Special Reconnaissance Regiment (SRR)
- Special Forces Support Group (SFSG)
- Pathfinder Platoon (16 Air Assault Brigade)
- 43 Commando Royal Marines
- Royal Military Police Close Protection Unit
In July 2013, the MoD awarded Colt Canada a £2.8 million contract to undertake a mid-life upgrade of the L119A1 carbines used by UKSF, leading to the development of the L119A2 variant.
Specifications of the C8 Rifle
The C8 rifle is a versatile and reliable firearm, tailored to meet the diverse operational requirements of UK specialist military units. Its key specifications include:
- Calibre: 5.56×45mm NATO
- Barrel Lengths:
- Standard: 15.7 inches (400 mm)
- Close Quarters Battle (CQB) variant: 10 inches (254 mm)
Features:
- Flat-top receiver with Picatinny rail for mounting optics
- Rail system on the handguard for accessories such as lasers, lights, and foregrips
- Adjustable telescopic buttstock
- Compatibility with the L17A1 underslung 40mm grenade launcher (the UK designation for the Heckler & Koch AG-C/EGLM)
- The L119A2 variant introduced several enhancements, including a custom monolithic upper receiver, a bespoke flash hider, ambidextrous controls, and a tan-coloured Magpul 6-position collapsible CRT buttstock.
This contract renewal underscores the MoD's commitment to ensuring that UK specialist military units have the necessary components to maintain the operational readiness and effectiveness of the C8 rifle platform.
Contact me to discuss gaps in your organisation - terry@morganryder.co.uk
Terry Murphy
April 2025
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