I agree. Caliber .223 (5.56mm) and "battle rifle" are oxymoronic. A battle rifle should be an M1, M14, FN/FAL, G3, etc. Even a K98k would be considered a battle rifle.

Iraq and Afghanistan have really shown the deficiencies in the M16/5.56mm NATO platform. Too many shots to permanently take down the enemy. Engagements are taking place at much longer ranges, and the 5.56 NATO just doesn't have the punch of a larger caliber.

This deficiency is also exacerbated by the U.S. Army's lack of intensive marksmanship training.