Peruvian Army selects Israeli Arad 7 Assault Rifle.

The Fábrica de Armas y Municiones del Ejército S.A.C. (FAME SAC) has recently defended its decision to select the ARAD 7, 7.62x51 mm assault rifle for the Peruvian Army. This stance follows criticisms from local media and members of the Peruvian Congress, who convened a session of the National Defense and Interior Order Commission to question Defense Minister Jorge Chávez Cresta about the details of this transaction.
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Fábrica de Armas y Municiones del Ejército S.A.C. (FAME SAC) has recently defended its decision to select the ARAD 7, 7.62x51 mm assault rifle for the Peruvian Army. (Picture source: Israel Weapon Industries)

For over 13 years, the Peruvian Army has sought to acquire new rifles. This process has been marked by local testing and multiple complaints from bidders about the logic of these tests. A rifle from a Peruvian company reportedly passed these tests but did not secure a contract. In the meantime, the army made partial acquisitions of the SCAR 5.56x45 mm rifle from FN Herstal, totaling nearly 2,900 units.

FAME SAC announced at Sitdef 2023 its partnership with Israel Weapons Industries (IWI), known for the quality of its products. The Peruvian Army, initially interested in the Galil ACE, ultimately chose the ARAD 7.62x51 mm, planning to acquire 10,000 assault rifles.

Concerns have been raised about the logistical sustainability of the project due to the current situation in Israel and the conflict with Hamas. Additionally, unofficial sources close to the Peruvian Army indicate that the recoil of the ARAD 7 could pose problems in automatic fire mode.

FAME responded to the criticisms by stating that the selection process of the ARAD 7 rifle complied with Law No. 31684 and other regulations related to the modernization of the armed forces, aiming to promote the self-sufficiency of the armed institutes. The procurement of products from FAME, which is the army's arsenal, is compared to similar practices within the Peruvian Navy and Air Force.

The ARAD assault rifle, inspired by the AR-15 design, distinguishes itself through the use of a short-stroke gas piston system instead of the AR-15's direct impingement system. It offers versatility in ammunition, being chambered for either the 5.56×45mm NATO or .300 AAC Blackout rounds. Notably, the ARAD is designed for modularity, featuring a quick-change barrel that allows for easy caliber switching. Additionally, all its metal components are treated for corrosion resistance, and it is engineered with over-the-beach capability, enhancing its operational range and durability in diverse environments.

It is also emphasized that, as part of promoting self-sufficiency, the ARAD rifle must be compared to products offered by the Peruvian industry, both economically, technically, and logistically, to stimulate competition and provide the best possible equipment to soldiers.