ST Kinetics SAR-21

   The SAR-21 assault rifle has been developed by Singapore Technologies Kinetics. It was first revealed in 1999. Currently it is in service with Singapore as a standard infantry rifle. It is gradually phasing out the previous M16S1 (a license-built version of the M16A1), SAR-80 and SR-88 rifles. This assault rifle is also proposed for export customers. The only export operator to date is Brunei.

   The SAR-21 is a gas operated, selective fire assault rifle, with bullpup layout. It is chambered for the 5.56 x 45 mm standard NATO round. It uses a some internal design and operation features both of the M16 and AK-47. The main advantage of the bullpup layout is the overall compactness of the weapon. Barrel of the SAR-21 has similar length comparing with the barrel of the M16, while the whole weapon is being much shorter. Housing of this rifle is made from tough and impact resistant polymer. It has been reported that this weapon comfortable to carry and to use, reliable, and accurate.

   Unlike most modern bullpup rifles the SAR-21 is not ambidextrous. There is only one spent case extraction port on the right side. The charging handle is located above the housing and folds forward when not in use. It does not reciprocate when the weapon is fired.

   A safety button is located at the front of the triggerguard. The SAR-21 assault rifle has semi-automatic and full automatic firing modes. Enlarged triggerguard allows to fire wearing winter gloves.

   All major parts of the SAR-21 assault rifle are held together by the push-pins, so the weapon can be disassembled without using any tools.

   The SAR-21 is fed from box-shaped magazines, holding 30 rounds. Magazines are made from translucent plastic. This weapon is also compatible with the standard NATO (M16-type)magazines.

   The standard sighting equipment includes sight with 1.5x magnification, which also serves as a carrying handle. Also there are emergency iron sights. There is a version of this rifle, fitted with a 3x magnification sight.

   A modified assault rifle can be fitted with a US-made M203 or Singapore-made CIS 40GL 40-mm underbarrel grenade launchers. This weapon is also compatible with a bayonet.

   One interesting feature of the SAR-21 is that it has a built-in laser pointer as standard. It is mounted below the barrel inside the foregrip and emits either visible or infrared beams.

Variants

   SAR-21P variant, fitted with a Picatinny-type rail, instead of the carrying handle with integral sight. This rail can mount various scopes and night vision sights. Rifle's charging handle was moved to the left side;

   SAR-21 RIS or Rail Interface System, fitted with additional Picatinny-type rails on the foregrip for various tactical accessories, including flashlights and additional grips. This variant also lacks integral sight;

   carbine variant with a shorter barrel. This model lacks integral sight and laser pointer. It was revealed in 2006;

   light machine gun, fitted with a heavy barrel and folding bipod.