BUENOS AIRES / TEL AVIV — The Argentine Ministry of Defense (Ministerio de Defensa) has finalized a Government-to-Government (G2G) agreement with the State of Israel for the procurement of IWI (Israel Weapon Industries) ARAD 5 and ARAD 7 assault and battle rifles.
Facilitated by SIBAT (International Defense Cooperation Directorate of the Israel Ministry of Defense), the acquisition initiates a phased modernization program designed to replace the Argentine Armed Forces’ legacy FN FAL and M16 service rifles across the Army, Navy (Marine Corps), and Air Force. The initial deliveries include integrated Meprolight MEPRO M-5 electro-optical sights, with further shipments and potential localized assembly support scheduled through Q1 2027.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS: IWI ARAD 5 & ARAD 7 WEAPON PLATFORMS
1. IWI ARAD 5 (Assault Rifle Platform)
* Caliber: 5.56×45mm NATO / .300 AAC Blackout
* Operating Mechanism: Short-stroke gas piston system with 2-position adjustable gas regulator (Suppressor/Normal)
* Receiver Architecture: Lightweight semi-monolithic upper receiver with full-length top Picatinny rail and M-LOK handguard positions
* Barrel Configurations: Cold hammer-forged, chrome-lined quick-change barrels (11.5″, 14.5″, and 16″ options)
* Ergonomics & Controls: Fully ambidextrous safety selector, magazine release, and bolt catch/release controls
* Effective Range: 300 – 500 meters
2. IWI ARAD 7 & ARAD 7 DMR (Battle Rifle / Designated Marksman Platform)
* Caliber: 7.62×51mm NATO / 6.5mm Creedmoor
* Operating Mechanism: Short-stroke gas piston system with multi-position adjustable gas regulator
* Modular Architecture: Quick-change free-floating barrel system engineered for extreme thermal endurance and field maintenance
* Barrel Configurations: 14.5″, 16″, 18″, and 20″ heavy barrel profiles
* Operational Range & Precision:
* Effective Range: 300 to 1,000 meters depending on caliber and barrel configuration
* Accuracy Profile: Sub-MOA capability (DMR variant) with extended cold-hammer forged barrel life (~20,000 rounds)
* Mission Application: Designed for long-range engagements, squad DMR roles, and high-impact tactical deployment by infantry and special operations forces
