US ‘Punisher’ rifle in tests

THE US Army is to test its latest weapon – a rifle it calls “The Punisher” that can hit enemies behind trees or hiding in doorways.

The shoulder-fired XM25 Counter Defilade Engagement System has a range of 2,300ft and a laser finder so soldiers can programme exactly where the “smart” ammunition detonates.

US Army Lieutenant Colonel Chris Lehner called the Orbital ATK gun “revolutionary”. Adding: “No longer will soldiers have to expose themselves. It will change the way we fight.”