The MAS-49/56 is the final iteration of the MAS-40 family of French semi-automatic rifles. It is identical to its predecessor in many ways, but different in others; It is shorter, lighter and possesses a combination compensator/grenade launcher muzzle attachment compatible with 22mm NATO-standard grenades. This rifle is emblematic of the Algerian War and the New Caledonian War, being used by French forces in both conflicts. Following the South Pacific Crisis, a large number of these weapons were captured by the Oceanykan People's Army and sold to private parties (as the non-standard calibre made it useless to them).