The Firearm Blog probably has one of the most extensive online coverage available on the French Heckler & Koch HK416s, as well as their new SCAR-H PR, S&B Scope and Night/Thermal Vision.

It’s therefore nice to be able to share some more wonderful pictures in this Photo Of The Day, with pictures from the French 35:e Régiment d’Infanterie.

We see soldiers from the Regiment using their Heckler & Koch 416s. I am sure you have already noted the optronics from FLIR on top of the rifle?

This is part of the FELIN (Fantassin à Équipement et Liaisons Intégrés).

The story of the 35:e Régiment d’Infanterie can be found below (auto-translated from French)

Created in 1604 under the name of Aquitaine, the 35th Infantry Regiment is one of the oldest regiments in the French army. From its creation to the present day, it has participated in all the campaigns of the monarchy, the empire and the republic. He distinguished himself on numerous battlefields, as evidenced by the ten victories inscribed in the folds of his flag and the eight citations.

Nicknamed the Ace of Clubs during the First World War for its belonging to the Ace division, the regiment has been decorated since March 22, 1916, with the war cross with four palms and holder of the fodder in the colors of the Military Medal.

Today, the 35th Infantry Regiment is made up of 7 companies: the command and logistics company, the lighting and support company, 4 combat companies and a reserve company.

The 35th Infantry Regiment is the only infantry regiment in France to master the triad of infantry: the VBCI (armored infantry fighting vehicle), the FELIN system (Infantryman with integrated equipment and links) and the NEB (digitization of the battle space). The 35th Infantry Regiment is therefore the most modern infantry regiment in France.

Since 2008, the regiment has been equipped with the armored infantry fighting vehicle, the VBCI. This vehicle, more modern, faster and with better shooting capabilities day and night equips the companies of the regiment.

In September 2011, the regiment received new equipment for combatants: the Feline system for Infantryman with integrated equipment and links (FELIN). The materials used by the combatants make it possible to increase the capacities of protection, aggression, observation and communication.

The regiment was projected at the end of 2012 in Afghanistan and was able to implement all of these materials, which have proven their effectiveness in a difficult theater.

Today the regiment recruits 160 Volunteer Enlisted per year: it includes 1050 men and women, including 260 executives and 790 engaged volunteers of the army, as well as 20 civilian personnel.

Ace of clubs is a partner in the local life of Belfort and the territory where it has garrisoned for more than 130 years. In 1870, during the siege of Belfort, the 35th infantry battalion already participated in the defense of the citadel.

The French Army has selected the Aimpoint CompM5 for their HK416F, but I guess the news hasn’t reached all units yet.

All images from 35:e Régiment d’Infanterie.