On April 4, 2025, the Australian Defence Force (ADF) began fielding the new F9 Sidearm Weapon System (SWS), a modular 9mm pistol system based on the SIG Sauer P320 X-Carry Pro platform. The F9 replaces the long-serving 9mm Browning Mk3 pistol and is part of a broader modernization effort under the LAND 300 Lethality System Program (formerly known as LAND 159). This initiative, valued at over AUD 500 million, includes the acquisition of new small arms, training tools, and support systems to enhance the ADF’s deployable capabilities. The F9 system integrates a range of components and training elements and is being distributed to Army, Navy, and Air Force units.
Based on the SIG Sauer P320 X-Carry Pro, a semi-automatic, striker-fired pistol, the F9 SWS incorporates a Romeo 2 red dot sight, Foxtrot 2 white light torch, holster, and retractable lanyard. Additional elements of the system include a simulation pistol for the Weapon Training Simulation System (WTSS), a paint-marking round conversion kit, and a red-colored weighted replica for use in the Army Combatives Program (ACP). The pistol features ambidextrous controls and is designed for modular integration with optical systems. The F9’s selection followed testing conducted by NIOA and the Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group (CASG), with initial delivery occurring at the Army’s School of Infantry in December 2024. The first operational rollout took place it February 2025 with Brisbane’s Gallipoli Barracks-based 7th Brigade.
The system is supplied by NIOA Group, a Queensland-based company that acts as the prime contractor for LAND 300 Tranche 1. NIOA sources components from five Australian suppliers, including Victoria-based Aquaterro and Platatac. The company provides armourer familiarisation, technical support, and training validation based on previously conducted training needs analysis. NIOA personnel are responsible for direct delivery to user units. According to NIOA Australia-New Zealand CEO Ben James, the rollout coordination with CASG was completed ahead of schedule. Planning is ongoing to equip units across the ADF by December 2025, with the full rollout expected to continue through 2026.