Old Corps Gunny
04-27-2006, 02:05 PM
According to a Jane's Defence article, initial purchases of the M29 Objective Individual Combat Weapon have been delayed for five years, and may be put on hold indefinitely. Considering the cost of the weapon, $10,000 to $12,000 each, this isn't too surprising. The M29 is an HK36 variant, chambered for the 5.56 NATO round, with a 20mm grenade launcher above the rifle. It also has a combination laser rangefinder/telescopic sight assembly that mounts above the grenade launcher with an on-board computer that can interface with the grenades for preprogrammed distance detonation, and with a special helmet so the soldier/Marine can shoot around corners or above walls, boulders or other cover without exposing himself. While all of this sounds great, it makes for an extremely complex weapon and, in my experience, the more complex a piece of gear is, the more likely it is to break down when you most need it.
Jane's didn't give the reason for the delay in purchasing, but I assume it is a combination of cost and complexity; maybe even concern over the learning curve teaching troops to master the various options of the system.
Jane's didn't give the reason for the delay in purchasing, but I assume it is a combination of cost and complexity; maybe even concern over the learning curve teaching troops to master the various options of the system.