Several weeks after the launch of the initial phases of Project Grayburn, the UK’s program to replace the SA80/L85, the UK Ministry of Defence has released a new notice for its Multi Caliber Sniper Capability - Project Shamer.
The UK MoD posted a notice for a second round of ‘Preliminary market engagement -2 (PME-2)’. An earlier notice was published in March 2025. PME’s are designed to encourage industry to engage with the development process before a procurement is tender released. For Project Shamer the UK is looking for responses and feedback on a requirement including:
- Sniper Weapon Systems
- Ancillary Equipment (e.g. suppressors, bipods, carrying systems)
- Through-Life Support and Maintenance
The most intriguing aspect of the Project Shamer PME notice is the ammunition speciications, with the notice stating: “The system will utilise in-service ammunition (.338LM, 7.62x51 NATO) and sighting solutions, as well as introducing a new to service nature .300NM.”
The British Army’s current precision rifle system is the Accuracy International L115A3 Long Range Rifle, chambered in .338 Lapua Magnum. It is a development of AI’s venerable AWM platform and has been in service since 2008, with 580 weapons initially procured.
The Project Shamer PME notice calls for the ability to adapt the rifle to chamber both .338LM and 7.62x51 as well as a round which is being introduced into British service - .300NM. Given the caliber requirements potential entrants may include AI’s AXSR MIL, the Barrett MRAD and the Sako TRG M10.
