The Russian military’s arsenal is poised for a major transformation with the mass production and fielding of enhanced AK-12 assault rifles that could reach the front lines in Ukraine by 2024 at the earliest. This development, as announced by the head of Russian defense manufacturer Concern Kalashnikov, Alan Lushnikov, on state broadcaster Rossiya-24, is set to mark a new chapter in the storied history of the AK rifle series.
The new AK-12 is undergoing a rigorous phase of testing, and if all parameters meet the stringent standards set by the Russian military, it will be launched into mass production in the latter half of the year.
The AK-12 is not merely a reiteration of its predecessors but a substantial upgrade, encapsulating the experience and feedback derived from its use in what Moscow refers to as the “special operation” in Ukraine. The rifle has already seen a batch of its new iteration delivered to the conflict zone for additional field feedback, as per reports. This move underscores the pivotal role that direct combat experience plays in shaping military technology.
The revamped AK-12 distances itself from the iconic AK-47 with notable enhancements. The AK-47, a 7.62 mm firearm, was initially manufactured towards the conclusion of World War II. It subsequently gained prominence as the standard weapon in the Russian military for numerous decades and found extensive utilization globally. When devoid of ammunition, it possesses a slightly higher weight of approximately 9.5 pounds, which increases to 10.6 pounds when loaded. As per the military database, WeaponSystems.net, it has a firing rate of 600 rounds per minute.
Marina Miron, a post-doctoral researcher in the Department of War Studies at King’s College London, U.K., explained that this new variant is “much more versatile” than the AK-47. It boasts a decreased recoil, and, critically, a Picatinny rail system above and below the barrel. The rail system allows for the attachment of a multitude of accessories, such as optical sights and laser aimers—additions that were not as feasible with the older AK-74M due to its limited accessory capabilities.
With a weight of 8 pounds when unloaded and an effective firing range of 875 yards, the AK-12 also features a two-round burst function alongside its capability to fire 700 rounds per minute. The adjustable tubular buttstock adapts to the shooter’s height, enhancing user comfort and improving accuracy. Furthermore, the operator can switch firing modes without removing their hand from the pistol grip, a small but critical ergonomic improvement for combat scenarios.
Kalashnikov’s AK-12, with its multifaceted improvements and adaptability, is designed to meet the challenges of modern warfare, particularly for front-line troops. It possesses the legacy robustness associated with the AK series while incorporating advancements that resonate with the evolving dynamics of combat.
As the Russian military continues to reequip its forces with the AK-12 since 2018, this upgrade is more than a strategic refresh—it’s a testament to the fusion of battlefield experience and technological innovation.
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