Steyr AUG

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	Weapon: Steyr AUG Type: Assault Rifle Country of Origin: Austria Year Adopted: 1978 Caliber: 5.56x45 NATO Action: Select Fire Overall Length (mm): 790.0 Weight (kg): 3.00 Effective Range (m): 300

The Steyr AUG (Armee Universal Gewehr), introduced in 1977 by the Austrian company Steyr Mannlicher, is one of the most recognizable and influential bullpup rifles in the world. Its design revolutionized modern firearms with its integrated optical sight, modular construction, and futuristic appearance. Chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, the AUG uses a gas-operated, rotating bolt mechanism and features a compact design that maintains a full-length barrel for accuracy while reducing overall length. The rifle's polymer construction further enhanced its lightweight and durable characteristics, setting a new standard for military small arms.

The Steyr AUG has been produced in several variants to suit different operational needs, including rifle, carbine, and light machine gun configurations. By 2024, over 300,000 units had been manufactured, serving with armed forces in over 40 countries, including Austria, Australia, and Ireland. The AUG's modular design allows users to easily switch between configurations, such as swapping barrels or converting it to a left-handed layout, which contributed to its widespread adoption. The rifle proved highly effective in diverse environments, from desert operations in the Gulf War to peacekeeping missions.

The Steyr AUG gained a reputation for reliability and innovation but also faced criticism for its unconventional bullpup layout, which some users found less ergonomic in dynamic combat scenarios. Despite this, the rifle remains a symbol of modern weapon engineering and has featured prominently in media and video games, cementing its iconic status. The AUG's influence on subsequent firearm designs underscores its significance in the evolution of military small arms, ensuring its place in the pantheon of groundbreaking rifles.