Beretta Defence Technologies (BDT) has announced a strategic initiative aimed at replacing the British Army’s aging SA80 rifle family while reviving the United Kingdom’s dormant domestic small arms manufacturing capability. The plan includes establishing local production facilities and offering a next-generation assault rifle platform tailored to British requirements.
Context: The End of the SA80 Era
The L85A2/A3 variant of the SA80 (Small Arms for the 1980s) has served as the standard-issue rifle for British forces since its introduction in the mid-1980s. Despite multiple upgrades — most notably by Heckler & Koch in the early 2000s — the bullpup-configured system has long been criticized for reliability issues and poor ergonomics compared to conventional-layout rifles used by NATO allies.
The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signaled its intent to replace the SA80 platform within this decade. While no formal program name has been announced, industry observers expect a competition akin to the U.S. NGSW (Next Generation Squad Weapon) or France’s AIF program that led to adoption of HK416F.
In parallel with capability concerns, there is growing political pressure in Westminster to restore sovereign defense manufacturing capacity — particularly after decades of outsourcing small arms production following closure of Royal Ordnance Enfield in 1988.
Beretta’s Proposal: Local Production with Global Technology
BDT — an alliance of Beretta Holding’s defense-focused companies including Beretta, Benelli, Sako and Steiner — is proposing a UK-based industrial footprint as part of its offer. According to company statements confirmed by MiliVox research through Jane’s and Defense News reporting in late 2024–early 2025:
- A new facility would be established in England or Wales capable of assembling rifles from imported components with gradual localization.
- The initial offering is expected to be based on a modified version of Beretta’s ARX160/ARX200 family or a new design derived from it.
- Partnerships with UK defense SMEs are being explored for polymer components, barrels, optics integration (possibly via Steiner), and logistics support.
This approach mirrors successful localization models seen in Beretta’s joint ventures in India (with OFB) and Qatar. It also aligns with recent UK MoD procurement preferences emphasizing “social value” — i.e., domestic job creation and industrial resilience — alongside performance metrics.
Potential Platform Characteristics
While BDT has not officially confirmed which weapon system it would offer under this initiative, sources suggest that an evolved ARX platform is likely. Key features may include:
- Caliber: NATO-standard 5.56×45 mm initially; future-proofing for potential shift to intermediate calibers such as 6.8 mm or .277 Fury equivalents
- Configuration: Conventional layout with ambidextrous controls; modular upper/lower receiver design
- Barrel lengths: Multiple options from carbine (~11″) to full-length (~16″) infantry variants
- Sights & Optics: Integrated compatibility with advanced fire control systems; likely bundled with Steiner optics solutions
- Sustainability: Designed for high mean rounds between failure (MRBF), corrosion resistance coatings, quick-change barrel modules
The ARX160 itself is already fielded by several NATO members including Italy and Albania. However, any UK-specific variant would likely undergo extensive trials under DSTL supervision before acceptance into service.
Strategic Implications for British Industry
If successful, BDT’s proposal could mark the first meaningful rebirth of indigenous small arms production in Britain since Royal Ordnance was privatized under BAE Systems. While some limited assembly work continues at facilities like BAE Radway Green (ammunition), no full-spectrum rifle production exists today within UK borders.
This initiative could also serve as a model for other European OEMs seeking access to UK defense contracts post-Brexit by offering local economic benefits alongside technical solutions. It may also influence upcoming decisions on future squad weapons programs across NATO partners seeking interoperability without overreliance on U.S.-based suppliers like SIG Sauer or FN Herstal.
Status Within MoD Procurement Landscape
The MoD has not yet issued an official tender or RfP (Request for Proposals) regarding an SA80 replacement program as of Q1–Q2 2025. However:
- A Capability Investigation Study was reportedly launched in late 2023 under DE&S Future Soldier Equipment Directorate.
- User feedback trials involving foreign platforms such as HK416A7, FN SCAR-L/H PR variants, SIG MCX Spear LT have occurred during recent Joint Warrior exercises.
- A formal pre-solicitation phase could begin as early as FY2026 depending on budget cycles and political priorities post-election.
If Beretta can position itself early through industrial partnerships and demonstrator systems tailored for British doctrine — including dismounted close combat teams operating from Boxer MIV formations — it may gain competitive advantage over rivals lacking local presence.
Challenges Ahead: Competition and Political Risk
The path forward is not without obstacles. Other major OEMs including Heckler & Koch (HK433), FN Herstal (Evolys/SCAR), SIG Sauer (MCX Spear), Steyr-Mannlicher (STM556), CZ Bren series are all expected contenders if an open competition occurs. Many have deeper legacy ties with NATO testing regimes or existing contracts within Five Eyes nations.
Additionally, any foreign-led proposal will need strong political backing amid rising scrutiny over defense sovereignty post-COVID supply chain disruptions and Ukraine war lessons learned about national stockpile resilience.
Outlook: A Test Case for Post-Brexit Defense Industrial Strategy?
The Beretta-led plan offers more than just a new rifle; it represents a litmus test for how Britain balances operational needs with industrial policy goals in its post-Brexit procurement era. If executed successfully — both technically and politically — it could set precedent across other domains such as UAVs, artillery systems or armored vehicle sustainment programs where sovereign capability gaps persist.
