Tel Aviv: The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) have selected the OR-4 assault rifle, manufactured by Israeli company ARI Arms, as their new standard infantry rifle. This marks a significant shift in the IDF’s small arms policy, moving away from both US-made M4/M16 variants and the locally produced Tavor, in favor of a domestically designed and produced weapon.
In December 2024, ARI Arms secured the largest small arms procurement contract in Israeli history, valued at up to $26 million, to supply thousands of OR-4 rifles to the IDF. The initial order covers around 10,000 rifles, with an option to double the quantity to 20,000.
The OR-4 is based on the AR-15 platform, itself a derivative of the M-16 and M-4, but incorporates modern adaptations to meet current operational requirements.
The IDF’s decision is part of a broader effort to standardise and unify its infantry weaponry, phasing out the IWI Tavor rifles currently used by several brigades. The move supports a policy shift favoring local production, aiming to reduce reliance on imported arms and streamline logistics, maintenance, and supply chains.
The contract is considered strategically important for strengthening Israel’s domestic defence industry and ensuring rapid, reliable access to small arms during ongoing and future conflicts. The OR-4’s adoption is expected to be followed by further tenders, focusing on expanding the IDF’s inventory of locally produced rifles to meet urgent operational needs.
-The writer is an Israel-based freelance journalist. The views expressed are of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of Raksha Anirveda
