Why the Australian Military STILL Uses a Bullpup Rifle

While most Western militaries have moved to traditional rifle designs like the M4 or HK416, Australia is doubling down on something different—a bullpup. We're talking about the F88 Austeyr and its modern successor, the EF88. For nearly four decades, Australian soldiers have carried bullpup rifles into combat across Iraq, Afghanistan, and beyond. American special operators often prefer traditional layouts. The British are moving away from bullpups. So why does Australia keep choosing this controversial design?

This is the story of why the Australian Defence Force refuses to abandon the bullpup—and why they might actually be onto something.

🔹 What You'll Learn:

Why Australia chose the Steyr AUG over the M16A2 in 1988

The tactical advantages of bullpup rifles in modern combat

How the F88 Austeyr performed in Iraq and Afghanistan

Why Australian special forces prefer M4s but infantry love the F88

The evolution from F88 to EF88: what changed and why

Australia's next-generation rifle program and the future of bullpups

🔹 Key Topics Covered:
✅ The 1985 rifle competition: Steyr AUG vs M16A2
✅ Bullpup advantages: compact length with full-barrel ballistics
✅ F88 Austeyr specifications, performance, and combat history
✅ Why bullpups are harder to reload and how soldiers adapt
✅ Special forces preference for M4 carbines vs infantry F88 use
✅ The EF88 Enhanced Rifle: modular barrels, improved trigger, modern optics
✅ Land 159 program: Will Australia finally abandon bullpups?
This is a deep dive into military history, firearms engineering, and tactical doctrine. By the end, you'll understand why Australia's commitment to bullpups isn't stubbornness—it's based on genuine operational advantages proven in combat.

💬 Question for You: Would you choose a bullpup or a traditional rifle for modern combat? Do you think the compact size advantages outweigh the ergonomic trade-offs? Drop your thoughts in the comments!

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Timestamps:
0:00 - Introduction: Why Australia Still Uses a Bullpup
1:30 - The 1985 Rifle Evaluation: AUG vs M16A2
4:00 - Bullpup Physics: Compact Length, Full Barrel