The LSW has been developed to replace the GPMG in the light role and about 80 per cent of the parts are interchangeable with the 5.56mm Individual Weapon (SA 80). A great advantage for the infantryman is the ability of both weapons to take the same magazines.

A rifle section will have 2 x 4-man fire teams and each fire team 1 x LSW. Like the SA 80, the LSW is currently experiencing some difficulty in firing 5.56mm ammunition supplied by other NATO countries.

This problem is under review. An Image Intensifier night sight, the CWS, has been produced for LSW, which gives excellent night vision out to 400m.

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