ZH-05 is nearing introduction

[Inst]

Via Hongjian from CDF

http://www.guancha.cn/Hong-Xibo/2014_02_23_208026_2.shtml

Some interesting things here on that site:

1. The first variant had a 5 round magazine, but the PLA requested the bolt-action system not only because it would be easier to change munition-type, but it also enabled the designers to design single-purpose 20mm grenades, instead of the XM-25, XM-29 and K-11's multi-purpose grenades: This means that each individual airburst grenade has only airburst mode, impact explosion grenade has only impact explosion etc., which increased the explosive load of those grenades as they reduce the room needed for complex electronics. The PLA has hence very high regard for the destructive power of their 20mm airburst grenades during urban battle, which performed better in tests than even hand-grenades and approaching that of infantry mortars (as in higher killing co-efficiency; note that 2nd chart I've posted in reply '76).

2. Due to the single-shot bolt-action system, the soldier can very simply chamber the grenade type he wishes before operation, without playing around with the electronic settings. This increases the reliability of the grenades and reduces the weight of the weapon due to simpler electronics.

3. There are three kind of rounds for the grenade launcher: The conventional impact grenade, the airburst grenade, and the 'secret weapon' - the 'shotgun'-grenade. Latter is described as a round that will unleash a barrage of shrapnels into the forward direction after flying a customized range as set by the user. Think of a small AHEAD round. According to the users, this grenade is devastating in combat and has a high suppression value in close urban battle. Hence, this system is also nicknamed 'three-in-one-launcher'.

4. TOE wise, the standard PLA squad is already divided in two fireteams. Traditionally, it was the RPG fireteam and the Machinegun fireteam. Now, each fireteam will receive one ZH-05 each, raising their overall combat efficiency dramatically.

It's essentially a lightweight OICW-clone at about 4.29 kg unloaded. The compromises it makes seem to be a relatively dumbed down electronics set alongside a bolt-action grenade launcher. Grenades are 20mm, but retain their potency by being single-mode with light use of electronics. There is also an AHEAD round, where the grenade is primed for a shotgun cone effect.