The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Sudanese military forces have been reported to deploy the Chinese-made 12.7 x 108mm HSARI LR2 anti-material rifle in their respective conflicts with rebel groups. This rifle, a manually operated, bolt-action weapon, is known for its significant caliber size and has been a part of the armament landscape since its first public appearance at the Asia-Pacific China Police Expo in 2012.
The HSARI LR2, manufactured by the Hunan Small Arms Research Institute Co., Ltd., represents a significant advancement in anti-material rifle technology. Its design focuses on achieving minimal recoil, compactness, and lightweight handling, making it a formidable tool in the hands of skilled soldiers. The rifle’s resemblance to the Barrett M95 is notable in both appearance and performance, but it distinguishes itself by utilizing drum magazines and being chambered for the 12.7×108mm cartridge, rather than the box magazines and different cartridge of the Barrett.
Operational Use and Effectiveness
With an effective range of 1,500 meters (4,900 feet; 1,600 yards), the LR2 is capable of delivering precise shots over considerable distances. Sudan’s Military Industry Corporation has even claimed to produce a variant of this rifle, known as the Khawad-1, since 2014. In the DRC, the LR2 is operated by the FARDC airborne troops, indicating its integration into specialized military units.
The deployment of the LR2 by both the DRC and Sudanese forces underscores the ongoing challenges faced in their conflicts with insurgent groups. The rifle’s capabilities suggest a strategic advantage in terms of range and firepower, potentially impacting the dynamics of these confrontations.
The deployment if this Chinese firearm highlights the growing reliance on foreign weapons by the DR Congo. Last September, it was revealed that the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has adopted the large-scale use of Israeli-made 5.56 x 45mm EMTAN MZ-4P assault rifles for use by its special forces. This was displayed in a recent public parade carried out by the military and security forces in the capital Kinshasa.
