Australia rolls out new close combat weapons

The Australian Department of Defence has procured F9 pistols for the Australian Army's close combat weapons requirement. (Janes/Amael Kotlarski)

The Australian Army has taken delivery of new close combat weapons, an Australian Department of Defence (DoD) spokesperson told Janes on 3 April.

In its written response to questions from Janes, the spokesperson said that under the DoD's Land 300 project, the department has procured close combat weapons, which include fighting knives, sniper systems, and compact personal defence rifles. The Land 300 project aims to enhance the individual combat equipment present with the Australian Army.

“The F9 pistol is delivered as part of a system, which comprises the SIG Sauer 9 mm P320 X-Carry Pro with a red dot sight, torch, and holster,” the spokesperson said. “It is supported by a non-lethal training kit and Weapon Training Simulation System (WTSS).”

Janes understands that 300 F9 pistols and support systems were delivered to the Australian Defence Force's (ADF's) training facilities in December 2024. Following the delivery, the 7th Brigade and some units at theGallipoli Barracks in Queensland were issued the F9 pistols.

The F9 pistols are being delivered by the Australian agent of SIG Sauer, Aquaterro. The fighting knife is designed and manufactured by Queensland-based manufacturer ZU Bladeworx.

The Australian government announced the selection of the P320 X-Carry Pro in October 2023 for its close combat weapons enhancement requirement.

According to Janes Weapons: Infantry, the P320 is a family of modular, striker-fired, polymer-framed, self-loading pistols chambered for either the 9×19 mm, .357 SIG, .40 S&W, or .45 ACP cartridges.

For more information, please seeSIG Sauer P320 self-loading pistol series .