Part 5/7:
Over the years, the Australian army gradually improved the AUG, leading to advancements such as the F88 SA1, introduced in 2003, and its upgrades in subsequent years with the F88 SA2 and EF88. Each of these iterations responded to combat experiences and sought to enhance functionality, including mechanisms for night vision optics and improved balance and weight distribution.
However, challenges remained, particularly regarding the integration of grenade launchers and suppressors. Innovations such as the SL40 under-barrel grenade launcher were designed to address these issues, yet the introduction of new technologies also raised complications, such as issues with mounting compatibility.