Thales Australia, based in the New South Wales region, announced on August 7, 2023, that the Australian Combat Assault Rifle (ACAR) has been successfully supplied to Ukraine. This achievement was made possible with the support of the Australian Department of Defence, which facilitated the shipment of a limited quantity of ACAR weapons to Ukraine in early July. The delivery was part of a comprehensive package of weapons and munitions from Thales Australia’s Lithgow Arms division. Reports indicate that the ACAR weapons were provided in two calibers, namely 5.56mm and 7.62mm.
These ACAR weapons have been provided to the Ukrainian forces, allowing them to assess the utility and effectiveness of the rifle for their future needs. Initial feedback on the ACAR has been positive, and Thales expresses confidence in its performance.
Throughout its development, the ACAR has undergone rigorous testing and improvements, leading to its presentation at the 2022 Land Forces exhibition. The standard version of the ACAR is chambered in 5.56mm NATO and is also available in 7.62mm and .300 Blackout. A 6.8mm version is in the final stages of qualification.