hehe, it was meant that way, but not as drastic as you interpreted it it seems.
A simple example:
a pilot 'class' that is able to fly a chopper for example will have the typical pilot equipment. Means he will have a specific selection of weapons and other equipment items he can choose from. A standard chopper pilot would never have a sniper or assault rifle with him. Not even a MP. A pistol would be the only thing he really can take or maybe the modern PDWs that are really small if we find a source for their usage in this sector. Sure the pilot is a very special class but that's how it is meant.
Another example maybe without telling too much of the system we have in mind...
if you decide to play in a standard infantry group, then you will get a selection of standard infantry equipment. This means you get standard ARs, MPs and stuff like that and maybe 'standard' sniper rifles that are used in this sector.
If you decide to play in a special forces group, then you will get a selection of 'standard' spec ops equipment. Like weapons with suppressors available or other special equipment designed for that role.
So, the 'class' decides a bit what will be available for you to choose from. This will by far not be as restrictive as you see in some games out there where you have real classes and each of them gets one or two weapons to 'choose' from. No, the equipment will allow you to fit into the group you have selected.
In addition your 'group' will not be able to carry a M16, AK, Galil and a FA MAS together if the scenario setups restrictions. If we get enough stuff together then the available weapons will be restrictable by the given scenario of a location and the side you will play on for example.
But please, do not overreact now or compare this system with stuff you already know from games and mods out there, it will most likely be totally different from the stuff you have in mind now... you will have enough toys to choose from...