Part 3/7:
Australia's Adoption of the AUG
In the 1980s, as the Australian Defence Force sought to modernize its weaponry, the AUG was selected for its lightweight and compact design. Its production began in 1989 at the iconic Lithgow Small Arms Factory in New South Wales, which has a storied history in firearm manufacturing and has been operational since 1912.
This domestic manufacture bolstered Australia's national security and self-reliance, essential for a nation with significant geographic isolation. With approximately 26 million citizens and a vast maritime domain to protect, having a locally produced rifle ensures that Australia can maintain its inventory even amidst global supply chain disruptions.