[2][7] In 1976 from experiences gained in the field, an idea to create a new assault rifle to replace the existing standard issue Senapan Panjang lit.

The SS-77 assault rifle design and operating system were based on the ArmaLite AR-18, utilizing a gas-operated, rotating bolt mechanism.

The SS-77 assault rifle design includes both a standard long-barreled version and a carbine (short-barreled) variant with a folding stock.

The Indonesian Army (TNI AD) and the Department of Defense and Security (Dephankam) intended to adopt it as the standard infantry rifle, replacing the SP-1 as previously planned.

[8] As a cost-saving and time-efficient approach, BPPT proposed licensing existing assault rifles that had already proven their durability and reliability in the field.

In 1977, the Government of Indonesia (GOI) aimed to transform the Indonesian Army Military Industries (Pindad) Small Arms Factory in Bandung into a co-production facility for M16A1 rifles.

At year’s end, the DSAA awaited contract details to draft a Memorandum of Understanding for approval by the Secretary of State and Congress.

[8] Ultimately, the FNC (the third candidate) was chosen and officially became the modern infantry assault rifle used by the entire Indonesian National Armed Forces.

[10][8] Another key consideration was that the FNC assault rifle had already adopted a 7-inch barrel and used SS-109 ammunition (full metal jacket) as per NATO standards.

It wasn’t until 1984 that production began at the PT Pindad factory in Kiara Condong, Bandung, Indonesia, after completing all necessary preparations.

[8] According to the agreement, FN Herstal agreed to finance the repair and retrofit program of existing 20,000 FNCs that had issues which were already purchased by Dephankam.