The Georgian Defense Forces have received a first batch of 12.7mm M2 machineguns, Mk.19 automatic grenade launchers and an additional batch of 5.56mm M249 light machine guns.
In August 2008, following a series of fierce clashes in South Ossetia, Georgia attempted to re-take the separatist territory by force. In the resulting military conflict with Russia, Georgia was driven out of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, and lost parts of its military capabilities. Russian forces sank four Georgian naval vessels in the port of Poti and hauled away nine rigid-hull inflatable boats. Georgia Land Forces lost approximately 30 T-72’s, 6 BMP’s, 2 BTR’s and around 10 artillery pieces of all types in combat. The Russians also captured 5 intact BMP’s, approximately 5 artillery pieces, BUK SAM system and OSA SAM system. The Georgian Air Force lost three AN-2’s, 2 Mi-24’s and 1 Mi-14 on the ground. Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia lost 2 Hermes 450 reconnaissance drones and 1 Otokar Cobra APC. The Russian military lost more military equipment in combat then Georgia.
Georgia immediately began a process of re-armament after the war. The conflict was immediately followed by a very quick replenishment program of the gaps in the single GAF (Georgian Armed Forces) arms components with an additional massive re-equipment and modernization program.
Georgian Minister of Defense announced that Georgia will be acquiring more Javelin anti-tank missiles and combat drones, as well as completely replacing Soviet and Russian rifles with M4 carbines.