Taiwan unveils improved T112 assault rifles and ballistic shields

Taiwan’s Ministry of Defense (MND) has unveiled improved versions of its domestically manufactured T112 assault rifles and bulletproof panels.

During a media event in Kaohsiung on Wednesday, the MND said presented the improved T112, which now offers an extended range of 600 meters (1,968 feet) up from 400 meters (1,312 feet).

The barrel life has also been increased from 6,000 in the previous version to 10,000 rounds.

To comply with US combat standards, the weapon’s “three-shot burst” mode was changed to “two-shot burst”.

Other improvements include improvements to the trigger, grip and grenade ejection deflector.

Last month, the MND announced plans to procure over 80,000 T112 assault rifles, which will be distributed in phases starting next year.

Ballistic shields

In addition to the T112 rifles, Taiwan also upgraded its bulletproof armor to the Enhanced Small Arms Protective Insert specifications used by the U.S. forces.

The protection area of ​​the improved version has been expanded to 25 by 30 centimeters, thus covering a larger part of the body.

Weight has also been reduced to 1.9 kilograms (4.2 pounds), compared to 2.2 kilograms (4.8 pounds) in the previous model.

However, the most significant improvement in ballistic shields is the ability to withstand 7.62mm projectiles.

The MNDs The defense bureau conducted a simulation to ensure that the coating would also protect against 5.8mm bullets typically used by the Chinese People’s Liberation Army.

The Taiwanese military is expected to receive 60,000 bulletproof plates, with the first shipment expected to arrive next year.