Israel Adopts New Special Operations Weapon

The Givati Brigade Special Forces elite recce squadron, was chosen to be the first unit to receive the prestigious MTAR 21 Micro-Tavor. Designed and produced by Israel’s Weapons Industries (IWI), it will gradually replace the long-time used Micro Uzi in IDF Special units. The newly issued weapon will considerably enhance close-in urban combat effectiveness of the Givati special operations unit, which spearheads many counter-terror missions.

With length of only 59 cm, MTAR21 is considered to be the shortest 5.56mm weapon in the market, yet its barrel is only five centimeters short of the assault rifle version, thus offering accurate fire. Utilizing a conversion kit, MTAR 21 can be turned into a 9mm sub-machinegun loaded with 25-round magazines. This capability has significant logistical, training and operational advantages for special operations and SWAT units, which usually maintain two dedicated weapons for short and medium range operations.

It is interesting to note, that an Indian version of IMI Micro-Tavor, designated Zittara, is designed by India’s Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) for use by India’s special operations units. Zittara differs from the Israeli Micro-Tavor by allowing the use of three different configurations and ammunition types for different situations – a carbine (firing 5.56×30 ammunition), an assault rifle (firing 5.56×45mm) and submachine-gun firing 9×19mm rounds with accuracy of up to 200 meters. These conversions can be performed in the field with standard tools.

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