NS55 – Evolution of Weapons (M-16 and SAR-21 Rifles)

In this week’s 55th Anniversary of National Service (NS55), we take a look at two of our most prominent weapons – the M-16 Rifle and the Singapore Assault Rifle – 21st Century (SAR-21), and how the SAR-21 has improved from its predecessor.

Those above the age of forty and have served NS would probably recognise the SAF’s longest-serving rifle to date, the M-16 Rifle, which was brought into the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) in 1967. Introduced in 1999, and made to replace the M-16, the SAR-21 is the quintessential assault rifle of the Singapore Armed Forces developed jointly with the Defence Technology Group, and the Chartered Industries of Singapore.

We spoke to First Warrant Officer Azwandi, Chief Trainer of Specialist and Warrant Officer Advanced School (SWAS) and Staff Sergeant (SSG) Kemas, Assistant Platoon Trainer from the Infantry Training Institute, who shared with us more about the SAR-21 and M-16 Rifle and their capabilities, as well as how the SAR-21 was improved from the M-16 Rifle.

1967: M-16 Rifle

Key Features:
1. One of the first Assault Rifles used by the SAF
The M-16 Rifle used to be the service rifle in the SAF, and has been in service since 1967. Measuring almost a metre without bayonet and 112 cm with bayonet, it has an effective range of 460m.

2. Similarities to the SAR-21
Similar to the SAR-21, it is magazine fed, gas operated and shoulder fired.

3. Aiming Through Two Sights of the Rifle
However, unlike the SAR-21, in order to fire off a round on the M-16, one would need to align the front and rear apertures, which are the rear sight aperture and front sight tip. When fighting at night, the rear aperture can also be switched to the larger 7mm, in order to have a clearer sight of the target. Finally, like the SAR-21, the M-16 is also magazine fed through a thirty round magazine.

1999: SAR-21

Key Features:
1. Bullpup Designed Weapon
The SAR-21 is a bullpup-designed weapon, which means that the butt stock of the rifle is removed, making it about 20% shorter than the M-16. With a shorter length, soldiers can move more freely in confined spaces. In addition, it has a built-in aiming scope with a 1.5x magnification, allowing our soldiers to detect and hit targets rapidly and accurately.

2. Presence of the the Laser Aiming Device (LAD)
Due to the implementation of the LAD, our soldiers can fire quickly and accurately without aiming through the scope. The LAD enhances a soldier’s combat survivability at night and is highly effective for night combat and close combat in built-up areas.

3. Low Recoil, Greater Control
The low recoil of the SAR-21 provides our soldiers with greater control over the rifle and faster recovery between successive shots. Greater control over their rifles is critical in combat operations, where our soldiers must be ready to fire their weapons instinctively.

4. Ability to Hold Different Attachments
The SAR-21 can be attached with a 40mm Grenade Launcher or M203 Grenade Launcher, expanding the weapon’s reach and firepower. Capable of being customised to suit different operational scenarios, the SAR-21 is a highly versatile rifle.

As we celebrate NS55, we would like to express our appreciation to all soldiers, such as 1WO Azwandi and SSG Kemas, who have once held or are still holding the M-16 or SAR-21 to defend our country. Thank you for your service to the nation!