| MSBS-5.56 Radon | |
|---|---|
| Type | Assault rifle |
| Place of origin | Poland |
| Production history | |
| Manufacturer | Łucznik Arms Factory |
| Specifications | |
| Weight | 3.7 kg (8.2 lb) normal, 3.4 kg (7.5 lb) bullpup |
| Length | 980 mm (39 in) normal, 720 mm (28 in) bullpup, folding stock extended |
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| Cartridge | 5.56×45mm NATO |
| Action | Gas-operated short stroke, rotating bolt |
| Rate of fire | 700-750 rounds/min |
MSBS (short for Modułowy System Broni Strzeleckiej or English: Module-based Firearm System) "Radon" is an assault rifle currently under development as a future service rifle of the Polish Army. There are two basic variants under development currently: a bullpup version and a standard version with folding, retractable stock. Thanks to a variety of modules, both variants are to be easily transformed into a sniper rifle or squad light machine gun. The rifle will be chambered for standard 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition.
Currently the standard issue service rifle of the Polish armed forces is a variety of kbks wz.96 Beryl-based rifles, all of them direct descendants of the AK-47 Kalashnikov, developed since 1940's. However, that design is considered both outdated by modern standards and impossible to further improve. Because of that work on a completely new family of assault rifles was started in Poland.
While the MSBS is conventional in external design (the magazine and action are located in front of the trigger), the weapon is said to be operating on a completely distinct internal mechanics. No further info has been disclosed however. The rifle is being developed by the WAT Military Technology University in Warsaw since 2007. It was first presented to the press in December 2009. It is bound to enter serial production at the Radom-based Fabryka Broni and enter service by the end of 2014.