The United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence (MOD) has released new data on the number of SA80 A2, SA80 A3, and L403A1 rifles currently held by the British Armed Forces. The information was disclosed in response to questions from MP Ben Obese-Jecty.
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According to Maria Eagle, Minister of State for Defence, as of February 25, 2025, the British military possessed:
- 125,276 SA80 A2 (L85A2) rifles
- 40,144 SA80 A3 (L85A3) rifles
- 1,620 L403A1 rifles, recently acquired by Defence Equipment and Support and delivered by March 10, 2025.
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SA80 A2 Rifle (L85A2)
The L85A2 has been the standard service rifle of the British Armed Forces since the early 2000s, as an improved version of the L85A1. The update significantly enhanced reliability, durability, and operational performance, addressing issues found in earlier versions.
- Caliber: 5.56×45 mm NATO
- Operating system: Gas-operated, rotating bolt
- Magazine capacity: 30 rounds
- Effective range: Up to 600 meters
- Firing modes: Semi-automatic and automatic
- Rate of fire: 610-775 rounds per minute
SA80 A3 Rifle (L85A3)
Introduced in 2018, the L85A3 is a modernized version of the SA80, bringing significant improvements in weight, ergonomics, and modularity.
- Monolithic upper receiver, reducing weight and improving balance
- Extended M-LOK handguard, providing more attachment options
- Enhanced bolt carrier group for increased reliability
- Flat Dark Earth (FDE) finish, reducing heat absorption and improving camouflage
The L85A3 retains the 5.56×45 mm NATO caliber and continues to use STANAG 30-round magazines. Weighing approximately 4.13 kg with optics and magazine, it is lighter than the A2 while maintaining similar dimensions.
L403A1 Rifle (KS-1 Knight’s Armament, Alternative Individual Weapon – AIW)
The L403A1, manufactured by Knight’s Armament, is the latest rifle adopted by the British military under the Alternative Individual Weapon (AIW) program.
- Fully ambidextrous controls
- Floating M-LOK handguard for increased accessory compatibility
- Knight’s Armament suppressor to reduce noise and muzzle flash
- Adjustable stock for enhanced user customization
- Weight: 3.6 kg (without optics)
- Barrel length: 14.5 inches
- Effective range: Up to 500 meters
The MOD confirmed the acquisition of 1,620 units, all received by March 10, 2025.
Transition and Expansion in the Weapon Portfolio
The figures released by the MOD indicate that the transition from the L85A2 to the L85A3 has been ongoing since 2018, reinforcing the modernization of the British Armed Forces’ standard weaponry. Meanwhile, the introduction of the L403A1 for specialized units marks an expansion in the British Army’s arsenal, though widespread adoption remains limited.
Source: UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) / X @RoyalMarines / UK Defence Journal
