The KH-2002 Khaybar is an indigenous Iranian-designed bullpup assault rifle based internally on the American M16A1. By Staff Writer
The KH2002 / Khaybar is an indigenously-produced assault rifle of Iranian origin. Based on the American M16A1 series of automatic rifles, the KH-2002 utilizes the same internal system though obvious modifications are made possible via an Iranian-produced conversion kit. This conversion kit basically transforms the standard M16A1 into a bullpup configuration. Developed by Defense Industries Organization (DIO) of Iran, the KH-2002 nevertheless represents a capable assault rifle.
Historically, the KH2002 began as the DIO S-5.56, an Iranian assault rifle design itself based on the Norinco CQ. The Norinco CQ was a Chinese copy of the American M16A1 assault rifle. Outwardly, the KH2002 itself maintains more of a visual similarity to the French FAMAS weapon.
The KH-2002 maintains a unique design layout which places the magazine feed to the rear of the unit, built into the forward portion of the buttstock. The pistol trigger is presented at the relative center of the weapon with a short barrel protruding from the weapons main body. An enlarged carrying handle is clearly visible running atop the weapon body with the cocking handle positioned just underneath allowing for ambidextrous use. An optional integrated bipod is present forward of the pistol grip and aft of the barrel. Bayonet mountings are also assumed as is a shoulder strap option.
As might be expected based on the M16A1 origins, the Iranian KH-2002 fires the 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge from a 20- or 30-round detachable box magazine. The firing action follows the same M16A1 gas-operation with a rotating-bolt design allowing for a rate-of-fire of 800- to 850-rounds, cyclic. Fire modes are covered by the selection of a safety mode, single-shot fire, 3-round burst capability and full automatic fire. The design was initiated in 2001 with production beginning in 2003. Official examples were entering service in 2004.
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Image Courtesy of Dan Alex
2004
Designation:DIO KH2002 / Khaybar Classification Type:Assault Rifle Manufacturer:Defense Industries Organization (DIO) - Iran Country of Origin: Iran
Operators: Iran
Variants
KH2002 Carbine - Short-barrel assault weapon
KH2002 Assault Rifle - Base assault rifle in bullpup configuration; origins in the M16A1.
KH2002 Sniper Rifle - Specialized dedicated "marksman" design with longer barrel.
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