"GDI", the intelligence unit of the Taliban, recently released a video documenting its operation against Islamic State Khurasan Province (ISKP) cells in Qala Murad Beg, Kabul.

The purpose of this article is to identify and analyze the weapons used by Taliban fighters as well as those captured from ISKP insurgents.

When we examine the weapons used by the Taliban, it can be seen that many militants are brandishing M4(A1) Carbines. Some of which are fitted with M203 under-barrel grenade launchers, Trijicon ACOG scopes and AN/PEQ-2 & AN/PEQ-15 ATPIALs.

Figure 1: Taliban GDI armed with an M4(A1) carbine and M203 underbarrel grenade launcher

Figure 2: M4(A1) Carbine with AN/PEQ-2 ATPIAL

Figure 3: M4(A1) Carbine with Trijicon ACOG scope and AN/PEQ-15 ATPIAL

The Taliban are seen using AKM type rifle variants, which are frequently found in the region. However, in addition to the automatic rifles, Taliban forces possess the Serbian Zastava M02 'Coyote' heavy machine gun.

Figure 4: AKM pattern rifles and a technical with a Serbian Zastava M02 ‘Coyote’ heavy machine gun can be seen in the background

Figure 5: Buttstock of the Zastava M02 ‘Coyote’

The weapons used by the Taliban seem to be quite standard for the region. It can be said that the Taliban’s weaponry in the video looks rather common overall (especially considering the types and amount of arms seized after their takeover).

However, the guns seized from ISKP also appear very standard. At one point in the video, the Taliban seize three M16A2 rifles.

Figure 6 & Figure 7: Captured M16A2 rifles from ISKP

In addition to these weapons, it seems that the Taliban seized various IED devices and some ammunition. Amongst the hardware confiscated, 7.62x54mmR FMJ (Full Metal Jacket) bullet boxes can be clearly seen.

Figure 8 & Figure 9: Captured IEDs and 7.62x54mmR FMJ boxes

Figure 10: Captured detonating cords

Considering the increasing and extremely dangerous attacks and the weaponry of ISKP, it is likely that this operation by Taliban GDI had very little actual effect on the group. Yet, when we look at the production of the video, it is clear that it serves a specific propaganda purpose. This would explain why they devoted resources to making such a high-quality and time-consuming production for an operation that ultimately doesn't have much impact on ISKP.

You can read War Noir’s previous work on ISKP weaponry here:

Militant Wire

Weapons Used and Captured by the Islamic State Khurasan Province After the Taliban's Takeover of Afghanistan

Afghanistan has witnessed many wars over the years. Many different actors showed themselves in these wars from time to time. The two most important of these actors currently operating are the Taliban and the Islamic State Khurasan Province (ISKP). The Taliban entered Kabul on August 15th, 2021, taking power and proclaiming the Islamic Emirate of Afghanis…

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7 months ago · 2 likes · War Noir

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