Vektor R4

Go Back to Assault Rifle

	Weapon: Vektor R4 Type: Assault Rifle Country of Origin: South Africa Year Adopted: 1982 Caliber: 5.56x45 NATO Action: Select Fire Overall Length (mm): 1005.0 Overall Length (in): 39.57 Weight (kg): 4.00 Weight (pounds): 8.82 Effective Range (m): 500 m Effective Range (yards): 546.81

The Vektor R4 is a South African assault rifle that was developed in the late 1970s. It is based on the Israeli Galil rifle, which in turn is derived from the AK-47. The R4 was designed to meet the needs of the South African Defense Force during a time of increasing internal conflict and border wars. It was chambered for the 5.56x45mm NATO round, offering improved range and accuracy compared to its predecessors.

Adopted by the South African military in 1980, the R4 became the standard-issue rifle for the country's armed forces. It saw extensive use during the South African Border War and other regional conflicts. Known for its durability in harsh conditions, particularly in desert and jungle environments, the R4 proved to be highly reliable and effective in combat.

The Vektor R4 remains in service today, both in South Africa and in several other countries. Its reputation for ruggedness and reliability, combined with its links to the Galil and AK-47 family of rifles, makes it a well-respected weapon in military circles. It has also influenced the design of later South African firearms.