Pripyat Underground Squad - Changing Weapons

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When I noticed NPCs pick up a gun when dropped at their feet if it's better than what they are carrying I kitted it all of the squad for the Prypyat Underground mission with better guns and the best AP ammo while they were all assembled at Zulu's tower. The only person I didn't change was Zulu because he was already carrying a powerful weapon.

The team started off using the guns I gave them but after using up one magazine of ammo they reverted back to their original weapon. Is there a way to make them keep using guns I give them or is it pointless even trying? The only one I really want to change is Vano.

Is there a way to make them use AP ammo with their default guns if I can't change the weapon type?