AR-70 / AR-90

Beretta's AR70/90 represents Italy's transition to a standardized 5.56x45 mm NATO rifle. Public references describe the earlier AR70/223 lineage and the later AR70/90 redesign, while WeaponSystems.net profiles the rifle family as a Beretta weapon system. The AR70/90 addressed NATO magazine compatibility, strengthened components, and updated requirements that emerged after the original AR70 design.

The AR70/90 is a gas-operated selective-fire rifle chambered for 5.56 mm NATO ammunition. Its family approach gave Italian forces variants for infantry, paratroopers, and support roles. Design updates over the earlier AR70 included STANAG magazine compatibility and more NATO-oriented features, making it better suited to alliance logistics and standard infantry use.

In service, the AR70/90 became a recognizable Italian military rifle of the post-Cold War period. It armed Italian units during years when NATO forces were deploying heavily abroad, including peacekeeping and expeditionary missions. Its later replacement by the ARX-160 shows the normal small-arms cycle from national 5.56 mm rifle adoption to a more modular, accessory-friendly 21st-century platform.