The Bundeswehr has once again chosen a rifle from Heckler & Koch, the renowned handgun manufacturer based in Oberndorf am Neckar. This time, the company has secured the contract for the G210 with its MR308A6 model. The Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology, and In-Service Support (BAAINBW) selected this rifle, which was specifically developed as the G210 semi-automatic sniper rifle for the German Army’s special forces. Starting in 2025, the G210 will be supplied to the troops as a “short-range sniper weapon” equipped with a new precision cartridge in 7.62x51 mm calibre (.308 Winchester).

The G210 is designed as a short-range sniper weapon, utilizing the proven 7.62 mm x 51 calibre. The Bundeswehr plans to deliver up to 500 units of the G210 to its special forces by 2025. Technically a Designated Marksman Rifle (DMR), the G210 features a two-stage match trigger, an M-LOK handguard, a left-side charging handle, and a 46-degree throw safety selector. The rifle boasts a 16.75-inch barrel and weighs 4.4 kg (9.7 lbs).

Heckler & Koch developed the MR308A6 specifically for this tender and displayed it at the EnforceTac trade fair in February 2024. According to Hartpunkt which reported this on Thursday, other manufacturers that participated in the program at various stages included Haenel, Geissele, and Colt Canada.

Alongside the rifle, a precision 7.62 mm x 51 calibre cartridge will also be introduced. The semi-automatic gas-operated rifle, weighing around 4.4 kg without the magazine, offers significantly improved ease of use by relocating the charging handle to the side of the weapon.

Heckler & Koch's new G210 precision rifle is designed to replace the G28, which has been a staple for special forces. Both rifles are chambered in 7.62 mm x 51 and are used for medium-range engagements. The G210 enhances ergonomics, accuracy, and handling comfort with features such as a lateral reloading mechanism.

Dr.-Ing. Jens Bodo Koch, CEO of Heckler & Koch, and Sales Director Marco Geißinger were delighted with the order on the sidelines of the contract signing: 

"We at Heckler & Koch are proud to be a supplier to the German Armed Forces' special forces. The spearhead of the German Armed Forces deserves the best weapons in the world. That is what Heckler & Koch stands for. After the delivery of the HK437 .300BLK as the G39 SD was ordered just a few months ago, the next product innovation from our company is the MR308A6 as the G210."

The decision to adopt the G210 reflects the Bundeswehr’s commitment to equipping its special forces with the latest and most effective weaponry. Heckler & Koch’s reputation for quality and innovation played a significant role in securing this contract. The introduction of the G210 is expected to enhance the operational capabilities of the German Army’s special forces, ensuring they are well-prepared for future missions.

Overall, the G210 represents a significant advancement in the Bundeswehr’s arsenal, combining cutting-edge technology with practical design improvements. As the troops begin to receive this new weapon in 2025, it will mark a new chapter in the ongoing partnership between the Bundeswehr and Heckler & Koch, further solidifying the manufacturer’s position as a key supplier of military firearms.