The IWI Micro-TAVOR X95 is the IDF’s (Israel Defence Force’s) backbone for infantry and urban operations in Gaza and Lebanon, writes André Forkert.
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The Micro-TAVOR from Israel Weapon Industries Ltd (IWI), also known as the X95, is a compact variant within the TAVOR family of rifles. The original TAVOR in 5.56 x 45mm NATO calibre was the first rifle of the TAVOR family and was developed at the beginning of this millennium to provide the IDF (Israel Defence Force) with a more reliable and easier to maintain weapon than the M4A1 carbine. This new rifle suited Close Quarter Battles (CQB) operations and use in vehicles with confined spaces.
Over the years IWI extended the TAVOR family with additional platforms. The X95 offered a smaller body than the regular TAVOR and also added additional calibre variants, e.g. .300 Blackout (7.62 × 35mm). In addition, the TAVOR 7 comes in the 7.62 x 51mm calibre, and the TAVOR TS12 is a shotgun. Thanks to conversion kits, the Micro-TAVOR is now a multi-calibre assault rifle and can be changed between 5.56 x 45mm, 300 BLK, 5.45 x 39mm and 9 x 19mm NATO calibres. The X95 technology allows the conversion between the different calibres within minutes, but special tools are required. This leap in technology enables the soldier to use the same weapon platform for a wide array of scenarios. Also, the compatibility with different calibres is an attribute that saves training time, spare parts, and reduces overall costs.
In fact the X95 was developed to provide the answer for IDF Givati requirements for operations in urban areas, buildings, narrow passages and tunnels etc. plus the ability to rapidly deploy from the vehicles. The Givati Brigade (meaning ‘Highland’ Brigade) is an infantry unit that was formed in December 1947 and in more recent times has seen extensive service in Gaza.
The Micro-TAVOR / X95, introduced to IDF several years after TAVOR, was developed in collaboration with the Elite Units (Special Forces) of the IDF. All the rifles of the TAVOR family are bullpup rifles (i.e. with the firing grip forward of the breech) and therefore well-suited for Close Quarter Battle, from vehicles and in other confined spaces. Also, every ergonomic aspect was taken into account during the development. The X95 is manufactured out of high-strength impact modified polymer, providing a strong but light weapon which can be operated from both sides. Thanks to its compact design and very good centre of gravity, the rifle can also be fired with one arm, for example after being wounded.
With these attributes, the X95 is an ‘all in one mission’ tool and an ideal weapon for handling complex situations such as modern terror threats, as well as urban and open areas combat. Thanks to the compact design and the very good centre of gravity, different optics can be used on the weapon dependent on the calibre used. The standard optic for the X95 was the Meprolight MEPRO M21, later the MEPRO M5 red dot sight. For the 300 BLK calibre, a corresponding silencer is added. The Picatinny rails make the weapon very flexible and allow a wide variety of optics, weapon lights and other accessories. As an SK group company (IWI, Meprolight, CAMERO, Uni-Scope Optical Systems Ltd. (U.O.S), Israel Shipyards, etc. are part of the group) it has been possible to develop a wide range of riflescopes as a complete system.
The Micro-TAVOR X95 is the standard weapon of the IDF infantry and Special Forces. Combat-proven by military and police forces around the world, according to users it is an exceptionally reliable rifle, even in the harshest weather conditions. It complies with the most stringent NATO standards for small arms, including environmental standards. Recent pictures and newsreels are evidence that the X95 is widely used in the current operation in Gaza and Lebanon. It is also, according to OSINT photographs, widely in use within the Ukraine military. Additionally India and other Asian customers are big customers, mainly choosing the weapon for their Special Forces.
The X95 offers several key advantages:
- Compact Design: Its bullpup configuration places the mechanism and the magazine behind the trigger, resulting in a much shorter overall length of the weapon without compromising barrel length. This design enhances the maneuverability in confined spaces.
- Modularity: The rifle can be easily converted between multiple calibres, including 5.56 x 45mm NATO, 9 x 19mm Parabellum, 5.45 x 39mm, and 300 BLK, allowing operators to tailor the weapon to specific mission requirements.
- Reliability: Built to withstand harsh conditions, the Micro-TAVOR has been tested extensively to ensure consistent performance in diverse environments, according to NATO Standards. And it is tested and combat proven in demanding environments such as dust, deserts, jungles, etc. The X95 has a very high reputation within the IDF thanks to its high reliability.
- Ergonomics: Designed with user comfort in mind, it is fully ambidextrous, and with a rear centre of gravity has a balanced weight distribution, reducing operator fatigue during prolonged use and enabling firing using only one hand.
Last but not least, the Micro-TAVOR X95 is combat proven around the world. Since 2008 it has been deployed in various wars and special operations, including the present war in Gaza and Lebanon. Currently it is used both by Reservists and Regulars (alongside AR platform rifles) inside the IDF. It was also used by Special Operations Forces in some hostage release operations recently. Photos and videos that can be found on the internet showing IDF soldiers in combat with their X95.
NATO doctrine assumes that no soldier is currently deployed abroad or for National and Alliance defence without being equipped with a ballistic protective vest. Here, too, the rear centre of gravity of the bullpup design offers enormous advantages; this made the Bundeswehr’s decision to categorically exclude the bullpup from the tender for the new G95A1 / G95KA1 section assault rifle all the more incomprehensible. In addition, the X95 design allows for a short rifle without shortening the barrel length and thus limiting accuracy. Basically, all arguments are in favour of a bullpup.
As previously stated, the X95 can be switched between the four 5.56 x 45mm, 9 x 19mm, 5.45 x 39mm and 300 BLK calibres. The Micro TAVOR’s design allows for quick calibre conversions using dedicated conversion kits which include the necessary components to switch between calibres such as barrels, bolts, deflector, and magazines. The conversion process is straightforward and can be completed in minutes by well-trained personnel, providing flexibility to adapt to different operational needs. While the weapon can be delivered with multiple conversion kits, the specific configuration depends on the user’s requirements and procurement agreements.
In addition to the different calibres the X95 can be fitted with a IWI 40mm Under Barrel Grenade Launcher (40 x 46mm). This grenade launcher was specifically designed with an ergonomic fit for all X95 assault rifles models. The IWI GL 40 is available in two-barrel lengths and compatible with low-velocity and medium velocity rounds. The X95’s IWI GL 40 can also be used as an individual stand-alone weapon.
The ARBEL system, introduced by IWI in April 2024, is a revolutionary computerised small arms system designed to enhance lethality, accuracy, and survivability. Currently, it has been integrated with platforms like the NEGEV Light Machine Gun and AR-15 compatible rifles. While there is a need for some adaptation for future integration with the Micro-TAVOR, such developments would depend mostly on operational requirements.
[Text © André Forkert / Images © IWI]
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