Weapons

Fifth-Generation Kalashnikov Assault Rifles – What’s New?

The development process of the new Kalashnikov assault rifles models has been progressing. Russia’s Kalashnikov Concern plans to conclude field tests of its fifth-generation AK-12 and AK-15 assault rifles by the end of June, according to Rostec state corporation Industrial Director Sergey Abramov.

In February, it was announced that the Concern would increase staff by 1,700, amid a surge in export orders. Russian weapons are regarded as extremely reliable (it famously has a 0.02 error percentage), efficient and combat-proven, and there is much clamor for Kalashnikov goods in overseas markets, according to sputniknews.com.

The 5.45mm Kalashnikov AK-12 assault rifle is a perspective weapon which is eventually intended to replace previous generations of 5.45mm Kalashnikov assault rifles in service with Russian and other governmental forces (AK-74, AK-74M), according to defenseworld.net. AK-12 project was commenced in 2011 by IZHMASH factory (now part of the “Kalashnikov” concern) as a private venture, in an attempt to participate in the “Ratnik” trials which were held by Russian army.