As mentioned in the Type 95 thread, the Type 03 assault rifle appears to be in limited service with the People's Armed Police (PAP). Are there any more news about the Type 03 in service? Also, are there any information about a squad automatic weapon or carbine version of the rifle?
The PAP has been distancing itself from the PLA recently with the introduction of the new Type 05 digital uniform, as well as a new assault rifle, Type 03, with a conventional layout as opposed to the Type 95 with a bullpup layout. This could be an indication that the Chinese military leadership wants to make it clear that the PLA is a more professional force with defending the country its ultimate goal, while the PAP has more interests in protecting the local goverment at which they are stationed. In times of war when the PAP must work with the PLA, the use of a different gun and uniform could be a headache in friend or foe identification, besides creating a logistical problem. However, this could be remedied through experience or increased communication and better force coordination. Additionally, the increased difference in equipment between the PLA and PAP would not be such a problem if the PLA is to deploy outside the country, while the PAP remains inside.