AUG

AUG refers to the Steyr AUG, a family of bullpup assault rifles designed and manufactured by Steyr Mannlicher in Austria. Introduced in the late 1970s, it was adopted by the Austrian Armed Forces and subsequently exported to numerous countries, becoming one of the most recognizable rifle platforms of its era. The designation AUG stands for Armee-Universal-Gewehr, highlighting its intended versatility as a universal service rifle.

The design is notable for its bullpup configuration, which places the action and magazine behind the trigger group. This allows a longer barrel to be housed in a shorter overall length, aiding balance and maneuverability. Typical calibers have included 5.56×45mm NATO, though the family has spawned variants with different configurations. Early models featured a fixed integrated optical sight mounted in a carrying handle, while later versions added Picatinny rails, modular components, and interchangeable barrels to support a range of roles—from compact carbines to longer-range variants. The AUG employs a gas-operated, rotating-bolt action and, on several variants, a quick-change barrel system for easier maintenance and adaptability in the field.

Variants and derivatives of the AUG include the original Steyr AUG, and the AUG A1, A2, and A3, as well as specialized forms like the AUG Para carbine. Export variants include the F88 Austeyr used by the Australian Defence Force, which adapts the sighting system and adds rails for accessories. The platform has been adopted by multiple nations for military and security use and has influenced subsequent bullpup designs.

Today the AUG family remains in service in some forces and continues to be recognized for its distinctive compact bullpup layout and integrated optics, even as many forces have transitioned to newer rifles.