In an attempt to diversify its sources of weapons in its war against Boko Haram Nigeria has procured 1,000 state-of-the-art Beryl M762 7.62mm assault rifles from Poland.
According to armyrecognition.com, the Polish Defense Company Firearms Lucznik-Radom is currently working on a contract for delivery of the fire arms for the needs of the Nigerian Army.
The deal also includes kits for maintenance and a training program for the Nigerian soldiers. It has been learnt that a group of Nigerian military men have already started their training programme in the city of Radom, central Poland.
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The first batch of assault rifles is expected in Nigeria by January 2015.
It would be noted that the Lucznik-Radom Company does not intend to stop. After executing its first export contract for the rifles, the manufacturers are ready to deliver 5,000 Beryl M762 7.62mm to Nigeria during the next year.
Representatives of the Lucznik Arms Factory said in a press release that this weapon fits perfectly for application by infantry and airborn troops. The new rifles are reliable, accurate and durable. They are also resistant to harsh external (environmental) conditions.
Under-barrel grenade launcher, GPBO-40 calibre 40 x 46 mm, is easily attached to the rifle. The grenades are able to hit and destroy light-armoured vehicles, ala Boko Haram jeeps and SUVs, at ranges up to 150 m.
Nigeria keeps spending money out of its huge trillion naira defence budget. While some of the deals are rather transparent, for example procurement of Russian-made helicopters, some other are not. We may recall September 2014 scandal with the foiled arms deal.
At the same time, the USA is not in position to supply sophisticated weapons to Nigeria.
