Yep, you're both right. Heat sink.....? No need as the grip is well away from the piston and gas cylinder. Could it be a simple spacer to, well....., space the grip? Both pics show the blokes wearing what look like jackets instead of the usual issue JG shirts. No webbing either except for a water bottle. Any ideas where he might have stuck his extra magazines?
I wonder if it's the same gun personally as I can't see the bipod or backsight either.
Looks like I'll have to get these papers back pronto to show the official instruction.