American modular assault rifle procured by New Zealand Defense Force replacing aging Steyr AUG. MARS-L (Modular Ambidextrous Rifle System - Light) features 5.56mm NATO, free-floating barrel, adjustable stock, picatinny rails for optics and accessories, ambidextrous controls. Selected for accuracy, reliability, modularity, and positive feedback from New Zealand special forces. Issued to all New Zealand Army infantry and progressively to other units. Represents New Zealand individual weapon modernization providing soldiers with accurate, reliable, modern rifle. Also procured MARS-H (7.62mm designated marksman variant) for squad marksmen. Close US military cooperation enables training and support.
![Lewis Machine & Tool logo](data:image/svg+xml;utf8,<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="200" height="60" viewBox="0 0 200 60"><rect width="200" height="60" fill="%23111"/><text x="100" y="38" font-family="Arial" font-weight="bold" font-size="14" fill="%23c8a84b" text-anchor="middle">LMT USA</text></svg>)
- New Zealand military standard rifle
- Cold hammer forged barrel for accuracy
- Monolithic upper for rigidity
- Picatinny rails throughout
- US LMT quality manufacture
- Higher cost vs M4/HK416
- US supply chain dependency
- 5.56mm limited vs body armor
- 550m effective range standard
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