China’s small arms – less conspicuous than its cutting-edge fighter jets but just as significant – are undergoing a major transformation.
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The QBZ-191 assault rifle, designed to eventually replace the People’s Liberation Army’s long-serving QBZ-95 family, reflects China’s commitment to boosting combat effectiveness to meet the demands of future conflicts.
Designated among the Type 20 rifle family, the firearm made its public debut during the 2019 National Day parade in Beijing.
The full family – including the base model QBZ-191, the compact carbine QBZ-192 and the precision variant QBU-191 – was revealed in 2021.
The models were featured again in the most recent Victory Day parade in Beijing, held on September 3.
Assault rifle evolution