So by 1998 your looking at something like-
British 'regular' army and TA equipped with the SA80/LSW, but augmented by the minmi and UGL as an essential war purchase.
Regular reserve- Those earmarked to reinforce British forces abroad get SA80. Those who do not get the L1A1
'Home defence' units- Those General service units (GSU's) and home service force get whichever they are issued.
With regards to sterling making AR-18's rather than further SA80's, isn't possible with the contract to fix them another attempt at flogging them around the world could occur? With it coming a limited production line? Might as well try to make some money out of it.
Also what about webbing? By the Gulf war PLCE is in full swing for replacing pattern '58. Pattern 58 being skipped and by '97 the entire army equipped with it. Do L1A1 7.62mm magazines fit in PLCE' pouches?
Good document though!
__________________
Lieutenant John Chard: If it's a miracle, Colour Sergeant, it's a short chamber Boxer Henry point 45 caliber miracle.
Colour Sergeant Bourne: And a bayonet, sir, with some guts behind.
|