M16 assault rifle

M16 assault rifle was the United States military designation for a family of rifles derived from the ArmaLite AR-15 and further developed by Colt's Manufacturing Company starting in the mid-20th century.

The M16 rifle family including the M16/A1/A2/A3/A4 and was the primary infantry rifle of the United States military from the 1960s into the 21st century. It was in use by 15 NATO countries, and was the most produced firearm in .223 caliber. The M16 entered United States Army service in 1964.

In 1986, military personnel assigned to Area 51 were armed with M16s.