RD-04: Difference between revisions

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{{infobox weapon
{{infobox weapon
| name              = IRA-90 <br> '' Infanteria Rifle Automatico Modelo 1990''
| name              = RD-04 <br> Rifle Design 04 <br> ''Raidhfil Dearadh 04''
| image              = [[File:Stgw 90.jpg|300px]]   
| image              = [[File:C42 6.45mm Rifle-IMG 0070-b-white.jpg|300px]]   
| caption            = A IRA-90 in the stock folded and open position
| caption            = An RD-04 assault rifle
| origin            = {{flag|Temuair}}   
| origin            = {{flag|Temuair}}   
| type              = {{wpl|Assault rifle}}
| type              = {{wpl|Assault rifle}}
Line 8: Line 8:
| is_ranged          = YES
| is_ranged          = YES
<!-- Service history -->
<!-- Service history -->
| service            = 1990 - Present
| service            = 2001 - Present
| used_by            = {{flag|Temuair}}  
| used_by            = {{flag|Temuair}}  
| wars              =  
| wars              =  
<!-- Production history -->
<!-- Production history -->
| designer          =  
| designer          =  
| design_date        = 1983 - 1990
| design_date        = 1983 - 1995
| manufacturer      = [[Brais Roi Arsenal]]
| manufacturer      = [[Brais Roi Arsenal]]
| unit_cost          = $462
| unit_cost          =  
| production_date    =  
| production_date    =  
| number            =  
| number            =  
| variants          = IRA-90, IRA-90M, IRA-90C, IRA-94 Curto, IRA-90TE,
| variants          =  
<!-- General specifications -->
<!-- General specifications -->
| spec_label        =  
| spec_label        =  
| weight            = 4.1 kg (9.04 lb)
| weight            = 4.1 kg (9.04 lb)
| length            = Overall: 998 mm (39.3 in) <br> Folded: 772 mm (30.4 in)
| length            = 1000 mm (39.4 in)
| part_length        = IRA-90: 528 mm (20.8 in)
| part_length        = 530 mm (20 in)
<!-- Ranged weapon specifications -->  
<!-- Ranged weapon specifications -->  
| cartridge          = [[6.45x48 mm (Pardes)|6.45x48 mm]]
| cartridge          = {{Wpl|4.85×49mm|4.85×49 mm}}
| cartridge_weight  =  
| cartridge_weight  =  
| caliber            =  
| caliber            =  
| barrels            =  
| barrels            =  
| action            = {{Wpl|Gas-operated reloading|Gas operated}}, {{wpl|rotating bolt}}
| action            = {{Wpl|Gas-operated reloading|Gas operated}}, rotating bolt
| rate              = 700 RPM
| rate              = 700 RPM
| velocity          = 911 m/s (2,989 ft/s)
| velocity          = 911 m/s (2,989 ft/s)
| range              = 400m
| range              = 400m
| max_range          =  
| max_range          =  
| feed              = 5, 10, and 30 round box magazines
| feed              = 5, 10, and 20 round box magazines
| sights            = Iron sights adjustable from 100 to 400 m, rear rotating diopter drum with tritium inserts, hooded front sight, models equipped with flat top rails include fixed front post and flip up rear sight.  
| sights            = Iron sights adjustable from 100 to 400 m, rear rotating diopter drum with tritium inserts, hooded front sight, newer models equipped with flat top rails include fixed front post and flip up rear sight.  
}}
}}


The '''IRA-90''' (''Infanteria Rifle Automatico Modelo 1990'', or Infantry Automatic Rifle Model 1990) is an {{Wpl|assault rifle}} developed by [[Brais Roi Arsenal]] of [[Temuair]] and has been in service with the [[Armed Forces of the Temuair Empire]] since 1990. It replaced the nations older <something> in Aisling service, which had been adopted in 1948. It is based on the {{wpl|CETME Model L|XIRA-73}}, which was never adopted.  
The '''RD-04''' ({{Wpl|Irish language|Aisling}}: ''Raidhfil Dearadh 04'', Rifle Design 04) is an {{wpl|assault rile}} designed and produced by [[Brais Roi Arsenal]] for the [[Aisling Defense Force]], and was one of the first military arms accepted into service following the nations full independence from [[Trinovantum]] in 19XX.  
 
Critics of the RD-04 cite its lack of modern features, including a lack of {{wpl|Rail Integration System|integrated rail}} systems for the mounting of attachments such as optics, designation  and illumination devices, the lack of a 30 round magazine despite the small dimensions of the cartridge, and an overall lack of accuracy when compared to other rifle designs of the era. According to a 2018 statement of intent from the [[Temuair#Government Ministries|Ministry of Defense]], the Aisling Defense Force is, once again, looking for weapon systems to replace the RD-04, and is highly likely to accept an existing foreign design despite protests from various members of the Chamber of Demagogues, all of whom are associated with the [[Temuair#Political parties|United Folk]] party.  


==History and development==
==History and development==


==Design==
During testing it was noted that the rifles lacked in accuracy when compared to both the {{wpl|FN Model 1949|RD-02}} semiautomatic rifle in service with the [[Aisling Army]] as a {{wpl|designated marksman rifle}} as well as other intermediate caliber rifles in foreign service, including the Trinovantan [[IAR-60]]. 


The IRA-90 is a hammer fired, {{wpl|selective fire}} {{wpl|assault rifle}} chambered in [[6.45x48 mm (Pardes)|6.45x48 mm]] and firing from a closed bolt. It has a {{Wpl|Gas-operated reloading|gas-actuated}} piston-driven long stroke operating system derived from the earlier XICA-73 rifle, which uses burnt powder gases vented through a port in the barrel to power the weapon's moving parts. Once inside the gas cylinder, propellant gases pass through an L-shaped channel machined in the piston head and are directed forward towards the gas valve. The pressure build-up in front of the piston head pushes the piston and bolt carrier rearward. As the piston is driven back, the gas port and the L-shaped channel move out of alignment, cutting off the supply of gas to the cylinder. Surplus gas and powder residues are evacuated through an exhaust port in the gas cylinder. This system ensures that only the precise volume of gas required to overcome the mass and resistance of the rifle's moving assembly is admitted from the barrel. The manually adjustable gas valve has two settings, one for normal operation, and the second setting for use in the presence of heavy fouling or icing.
Furthermore, soldiers equipped with the RD-04 following completion of its trails and acceptance into service complained that the requirement of removing the weapon's charring handle to field strip and clean the rifle resulted in the piece being lost frequently. This issue was also noted during testing and trial records indicate that of the 100 rifles submitted for trials, 30 charging handle pieces had to be ordered and fabricated for replacement. Starting in 2005, the rifles were no longer issued with stripper clip guides in the weapon's pistol grip storage compartment, that item having been replaced by a spare charging handle.


The rotary bolt locking mechanism, which was taken directly from the earlier XICA-73, consists of two steel locking lugs that engage locking recesses in the breech A spring-loaded extractor is incorporated into the bolt while a fixed protrusion on one of the receiver's internal guide rails ejects the spent cartridge casings.  
==Design==
[[File:C42 Carbin 6.45mm-E2014-IMG 0072.JPG|thumb|left|a close up of the selector switch and unique handguard of the RD-04]] 
There are two distinct designs for the RD-04. The standard RD-04 designation is applied to the standard issue 20 inch barreled version of the rifle, whereas the RD-04G, or short is applied to the carbine version of the rifle, which has a 14 inch barrel. The full length version of the RD-04 includes a bayonet lug, rifle grenade launching capability, and integral simple bipod (all features omitted on the RD-04G). Both carbine and rifle versions are fitted with a single position folding stock and quick detach barrels. The rifle unique trigger guard was designed for use by {{wpl|mountain warfare}} units, such as the Aisling [[Alpinisti]], and allows the rifle to be used with mittens or heavy gloves. The pistol grip is hollow and has a removable catch on the bottom to allow for storage, including a disassembly tool. Rifles were often issued with a tripper clip guide in the storage compartment to allow operators to rapidly refill magazines.  


The rifle features an ambidextrous safety and fire sections witch with four positions; Safe, Single, Burst, and Automatic (0/1/3/30). The trigger guard is capable of folding down to facilitate the use of heavy gloves when firing. Magazines are produce in 5, 10, 20 and 30 round versions and are constructed of high impact polymers. The side-folding skeletal stock is also adjustable to four different lengths. The hinged stock is firmly locked in the folded position by a socket in the butt which clips into a plastic stud on the handguard; a firm pull will release the stock which is then swung into the closed position and locked by a button catch. The forward handguard is equipped with grooves to accept a lightweight aluminium bipod.  
The RD-04 is a select fire rifle with a four position selector switch, Safe (S), semiautomatic (C), three-round burst (P), and fully automatic (U). The design of the selector switch allows the operator to only see the selected fire mode, with all others being hidden by the device. The selector switch is located just above the pistol grip and is usable for both left and right handed shooters owing to its ambidextrous controls. However, the rifle's bolt releases is located only on the left side of the receiver. The rifle charging handle, located on the top of the rifle, is also ambidextrous, and does reciprocate during firing.  


The heavy, cold hammer-forged barrel is screwed into the receiver and is equipped with a slotted "bird cage" type flash suppressor that is also used to launch rifle grenades (using standard, live ammunition) or attach a knife bayonet (the bayonet is supported by a lug located at the base of the gas block).
The rifle's magazine release is located in a unique position, situated along the front of the trigger guard. Magazines are a traditional rock in/rock out style, and 5, 10 and 20 round magazines are available.  


The standard IRA-90 and IRA-90M is compatible with bayonet and is capable of firing riffle grenades. This assault rifle can be equipped with the  {{wpl|SIG GL 5040|Lanzagranadas LG-40}} 40 mm underbarrel grenade launcher. This grenade launcher can be operated independently from the rifle.
The RD-04's rear sight consists of a single piece rear aperture sight with adjustable windage and elevation, elevation being controlled by a large dial located behind the sight block. Adjustments range from just under 200 meters out to 500 meters, with a "universal zero" position at 300 meters. The aperture sight can be folded down allowing for a rear notch sight to be used for nighttime shooting. The low light notch sight includes a pair of tritium dots to allow for easier acquisition. The front sight consists of a fully hooded flat topped front post with a luminous dot.  


==Variants==
==Variants==


===IRA-90===
==Operators==
 
[[File:C42 Carbin 6.45mm-E2014-IMG 0082-white.jpg|thumb|A RD-04G carbine]]  
First production variant
 
===IRA-90C===
 
Carbine variant for use by airborne and air assault forces. It features a shorter barrel than the standard IRA-90 and does not include the integrated bipod, but can still utilize both a bayonet and rifle grenades.
 
All IRA-90C models in service have been upgraded with the IRA-90M, but retain the C designation.
 
In 2006, troops stationed in {{wpl|low intensity conflict}} zones began recieveing IRA-90C's in place of the longer and heavier IRA-90 and IRA-90M. In 2014, the Imperial Army had suggested adopting the IRA-90C, redesignated as the ICA-90, as the standard weapon of the Imperial Army.
 
===IRA-94 ''Curto''===
 
Ultra-short version for special force and personal defense. It has a shorter 226 mm (8.9 in) barrel (with an open, 3-prong flash suppressor) and gas tube, ventilated handguards and was the first IRA-90 variant to feature a redesigned bolt carrier group that was integrated with the piston rod to form a single moving assembly, a feature that is now standard on all ITA-90 rifles. It can fire standard 6.65x49 mm rounds, but a specialized round designed for barrel lengths under 16 inches, exists. It can not utilize a bayonet or rifle grenades, though a version with a longer 346 mm (13.6 in) barrel exists and can utilize these features.
 
===IRA-90A1===
[[File:Caroline-profile-bipode-p1000509.jpg|thumb|An IRA-90A1]]
Adopted in 2004, one of the primary features of the IRA-90A1 improvements to the weapons internal functions, including the repositioning of the recoil spring to wrap it around the piston rod; an improvement already featured on the IRA-94 ''Curto'' as well as an integrated bipod.
 
===IRA-90TE===
 
The IRA-90TE is utilized as a squad designated marksmen rifle. This accurized rifle has a refined two-stage trigger (the pull force was reduced from 35 N (7.9 lbf) to 15 N (3.4 lbf), a heavy, hammer-forged 650 mm (25.6 in) long barrel with a 254 mm (1:10 in) rifling twist rate (it has no flash hider) and is used exclusively with telescopic sights. The new folding stock has an adjustable cheek piece and a spacer system on the butt, the ergonomic pistol grip's angle of inclination can be regulated and the bipod features a height and cant adjustment mechanism.
===Version comparison===
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
! Version
! Weight
! Length
! Barrel length
! Muzzle velocity
! Notes
|-
| IRA-90 || 4.1 kg (9.04 lb) || Overall: 998 mm (39.3 in) <hr> Stock Folded: 772 mm (30.4 in) || 528 mm (20.8 in) || 911 m/s (2,989 ft/s) ||
|-
| IRA-90M || 4.1 kg (9.04 lb) || Overall: 998 mm (39.3 in) <hr> Stock Folded: 772 mm (30.4 in) || 528 mm (20.8 in) || 911 m/s (2,989 ft/s) ||
|-
| IRA-90C || 3.40 kg (7.5 lb) || Overall: 833 mm (32.8 in) <hr> Stock Folded: 607 mm (23.9 in) || 454 mm (17.9 in)  || 850 m/s (2,788.7 ft/s) ||
|-
| IRA-94 ''Curto'' || 3.2 kg (7.1 lb) || Overall: 504 mm (19.8 in) <hr> Stock Folded: 730 mm (28.7 in) || 226 mm (8.9 in) || 725 m/s (2,378.6 ft/s) ||
|-
| IRA-90TE || 7.02 kg (15.5 lb) || Overall: 1,130 mm (44.5 in) <hr> Stock Folded: 905 mm (35.6 in) || 650 mm (25.6 in) || 940 m/s (3,084.0 ft/s) ||
|}


==Operators==
[[File:Stgw 90 kurz.jpg|thumb|An IRA-94 ''Curto'']]
* {{flag|Temuair}}
* {{flag|Temuair}}
** [[Armed Forces of the Temuair Empire]]: Versions of the IRA-90 in service with all branches, as well as law enforcement agencies.
** [[Aisling Defense Force]]: Versions of the RD-04 in service with all branches, as well as law enforcement agencies.


==See also==
==See also==


[[Category: Temuair]]
* {{flagicon|Rocha Sur}} {{Wpl|FARA 83|F-1}}
[[Category: Aisling Defense Force]]
* {{flagicon|Luminerra}} [[ARO FC-7|FC-7]]
* {{Flagicon|Notreceau}} [[FAMAC]]
* {{flagicon|Trinovantum}} [[IAR-60]]
* {{flagicon|Trinovantum}} [[Common Service Weapon|IAR-80]]
 
[[Category:Temuair]]
[[Category:Aisling Defense Force]]
[[Category:Weapon Systems in Annwynn]]

Latest revision as of 02:21, 23 September 2021

RD-04
Rifle Design 04
Raidhfil Dearadh 04
C42 6.45mm Rifle-IMG 0070-b-white.jpg
An RD-04 assault rifle
TypeAssault rifle
Place of origin Temuair
Service history
In service2001 - Present
Used by Temuair
Production history
Designed1983 - 1995
ManufacturerBrais Roi Arsenal
Specifications
Weight4.1 kg (9.04 lb)
Length1000 mm (39.4 in)
Barrel length530 mm (20 in)

Cartridge4.85×49 mm
ActionGas operated, rotating bolt
Rate of fire700 RPM
Muzzle velocity911 m/s (2,989 ft/s)
Effective firing range400m
Feed system5, 10, and 20 round box magazines
SightsIron sights adjustable from 100 to 400 m, rear rotating diopter drum with tritium inserts, hooded front sight, newer models equipped with flat top rails include fixed front post and flip up rear sight.

The RD-04 (Aisling: Raidhfil Dearadh 04, Rifle Design 04) is an assault rile designed and produced by Brais Roi Arsenal for the Aisling Defense Force, and was one of the first military arms accepted into service following the nations full independence from Trinovantum in 19XX.

Critics of the RD-04 cite its lack of modern features, including a lack of integrated rail systems for the mounting of attachments such as optics, designation and illumination devices, the lack of a 30 round magazine despite the small dimensions of the cartridge, and an overall lack of accuracy when compared to other rifle designs of the era. According to a 2018 statement of intent from the Ministry of Defense, the Aisling Defense Force is, once again, looking for weapon systems to replace the RD-04, and is highly likely to accept an existing foreign design despite protests from various members of the Chamber of Demagogues, all of whom are associated with the United Folk party.

History and development

During testing it was noted that the rifles lacked in accuracy when compared to both the RD-02 semiautomatic rifle in service with the Aisling Army as a designated marksman rifle as well as other intermediate caliber rifles in foreign service, including the Trinovantan IAR-60.

Furthermore, soldiers equipped with the RD-04 following completion of its trails and acceptance into service complained that the requirement of removing the weapon's charring handle to field strip and clean the rifle resulted in the piece being lost frequently. This issue was also noted during testing and trial records indicate that of the 100 rifles submitted for trials, 30 charging handle pieces had to be ordered and fabricated for replacement. Starting in 2005, the rifles were no longer issued with stripper clip guides in the weapon's pistol grip storage compartment, that item having been replaced by a spare charging handle.

Design

a close up of the selector switch and unique handguard of the RD-04

There are two distinct designs for the RD-04. The standard RD-04 designation is applied to the standard issue 20 inch barreled version of the rifle, whereas the RD-04G, or short is applied to the carbine version of the rifle, which has a 14 inch barrel. The full length version of the RD-04 includes a bayonet lug, rifle grenade launching capability, and integral simple bipod (all features omitted on the RD-04G). Both carbine and rifle versions are fitted with a single position folding stock and quick detach barrels. The rifle unique trigger guard was designed for use by mountain warfare units, such as the Aisling Alpinisti, and allows the rifle to be used with mittens or heavy gloves. The pistol grip is hollow and has a removable catch on the bottom to allow for storage, including a disassembly tool. Rifles were often issued with a tripper clip guide in the storage compartment to allow operators to rapidly refill magazines.

The RD-04 is a select fire rifle with a four position selector switch, Safe (S), semiautomatic (C), three-round burst (P), and fully automatic (U). The design of the selector switch allows the operator to only see the selected fire mode, with all others being hidden by the device. The selector switch is located just above the pistol grip and is usable for both left and right handed shooters owing to its ambidextrous controls. However, the rifle's bolt releases is located only on the left side of the receiver. The rifle charging handle, located on the top of the rifle, is also ambidextrous, and does reciprocate during firing.

The rifle's magazine release is located in a unique position, situated along the front of the trigger guard. Magazines are a traditional rock in/rock out style, and 5, 10 and 20 round magazines are available.

The RD-04's rear sight consists of a single piece rear aperture sight with adjustable windage and elevation, elevation being controlled by a large dial located behind the sight block. Adjustments range from just under 200 meters out to 500 meters, with a "universal zero" position at 300 meters. The aperture sight can be folded down allowing for a rear notch sight to be used for nighttime shooting. The low light notch sight includes a pair of tritium dots to allow for easier acquisition. The front sight consists of a fully hooded flat topped front post with a luminous dot.

Variants

Operators

A RD-04G carbine

See also