Thales F90
Thales Australia · Assault Rifle · In Production · 2012
Also known as: EF88, Enhanced F88, F90 Austeyr
Overview
The Thales F90 is a select-fire assault rifle chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, produced by Thales Australia since 2012. Safety features include cross bolt safety, trigger safety, reflecting modern design standards that prioritize safe handling and operation. With over 137 years of firearms manufacturing experience, Thales Australia 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) | 3250 g (114.6 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 3570 g (125.9 oz) |
| Overall Length | 700 mm (27.56") |
| Barrel Length | 407 mm (16.02") |
| Height | 215 mm (8.46") |
| Width | 72 mm (2.83") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Rotating Bolt |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 30 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 972 m/s (3189 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 1886 J (1391 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 300 m (328 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 3600 m (3937 yd) |
| Rate of Fire | 850 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 178 mm (7.01") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- 5.56x45mm NATO · primary · 5.56x45mm NATO — also known as .223 Remington, 5.56 NATO
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic, Full Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Cross Bolt Safety, Trigger Safety
- Features: Picatinny Rail, Bullpup Configuration, Cold Hammer Forged Barrel, Fluted Barrel, Bolt Hold Open, Translucent Polymer Magazine, Integrated Grenade Launcher Mount, Ambidextrous Controls
Variants
- Thales F90M — Marksman
- Thales F90 CQB — Carbine
- Thales F90(G) — Grenade Launcher
- Thales F90M(G) — Marksman Grenade Launcher
Service history
Operators
- Australian Defence Force · adopted 2015 · as EF88
- French Armed Forces
Conflicts
- War in Afghanistan (2001-2021)
- Operation Inherent Resolve (2014-present)
Production
Estimated total produced: 30,000 · Production years: 2014-present
Initial Australian Defence Force contract for 30,000 rifles awarded in August 2015 under Project Land 125 Phase 3C, with low-rate initial production beginning in September 2014
Origin
Country of origin: Australia
Designer: Thales Australia
Notes
The F90 departs from the original Steyr AUG design by using non-removable barrels, which simplifies the design and reduces weight. The weapon uses proprietary translucent polymer magazines but can accept STANAG magazines with modification. Production takes place at the historic Lithgow Arms facility in New South Wales, Australia.
Background
The F90 represents Australia's commitment to indigenous defense manufacturing, continuing a firearms production legacy at Lithgow that dates back to 1912. The rifle is manufactured at the same facility that produced the iconic Lee-Enfield rifles during both World Wars and later the F88 Austeyr. Thales Australia has positioned the F90 for international export, particularly targeting the Indian market through partnerships with local manufacturers.