DIO KH2002 Khaybar

Defense Industries Organization · Assault Rifle · In Production · 2004

Also known as: Khaybar, KH-2002, KH2002

Overview

The DIO KH2002 Khaybar is a select-fire assault rifle chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, produced by Defense Industries Organization since 2004. The steel and polymer frame provides a solid, premium feel with the durability to withstand decades of regular use and thousands of rounds. Safety features include manual safety selector, fire selector, reflecting modern design standards that prioritize safe handling and operation. With over 101 years of firearms manufacturing experience, Defense Industries Organization brings established expertise in metallurgy, machining, and quality control to every product in their lineup, ensuring each firearm meets the standards expected by today's demanding market of knowledgeable shooters and professionals.

Specifications

Weight (empty)3700 g (130.5 oz)
Weight (loaded)4060 g (143.2 oz)
Overall Length780 mm (30.71")
Barrel Length510 mm (20.08")
Action TypeGas Operated Direct Impingement
Firing MechanismHammer Fired
Trigger TypeSingle Stage
Magazine Capacity30 rounds
Magazine TypeDetachable Box
Muzzle Velocity900 m/s (2953 fps)
Muzzle Energy1620 J (1195 ft·lbf)
Effective Range450 m (492 yd)
Maximum Range800 m (875 yd)
Rate of Fire825 rpm
Barrel RiflingRight Hand
Rifling Twist178 mm (7.01")
Number of Grooves6
Frame MaterialSteel And Polymer
Barrel MaterialSteel
Stock MaterialPolymer
FinishMatte Black

Calibers

Features

Variants

Service history

Operators

Conflicts

Production

Production years: 2004-present

Production numbers not publicly disclosed. Serial production confirmed since 2004 for Iranian military and security forces.

Origin

Country of origin: Iran

Notes

Development began in 2001 with serial production starting in 2004. The bullpup layout provides a compact overall length of 780mm while retaining a full 510mm barrel. The rifle uses STANAG-compatible magazines in 20- or 30-round capacities. The direct impingement gas system is identical to the M16 family, with the bolt carrier group assembly being interchangeable with M16 parts. Available in three barrel configurations: short (carbine), medium (standard), and long (designated marksman). Iran's domestic ammunition production capability in 5.56x45mm supports the rifle's logistics chain despite international sanctions.

Background

Named after the Battle of Khaybar (628 AD), a significant military campaign in early Islamic history. The rifle represents Iran's attempt to modernize its infantry small arms despite international arms embargoes. Its lineage traces a fascinating path: American M16 design, copied by China as the NORINCO CQ, acquired by Iran as the S 5.56, then redesigned into a bullpup configuration as the KH2002.