Kalashnikov delivers new batch of AK-12 assault rifles to Russian ArmyDefense News December 2023
On November 1, 2023, Kalashnikov announced the successful delivery of a new batch of AK-12 asssault rifles, thus fulfilling the terms of an expanded contract. This recent delivery marks a significant increase, nearly doubling the number of AK-12 rifles distributed to the Russian military compared to the previous year.
The 5.45 mm AK-12 is the standard service assault rifle of the Russian military. (Picture source: Kalashnikov)This achievement follows the completion of AK-12 rifle production under a three-year contract, a detail shared by Alan Lushnikov, the president of Kalashnikov, during a press event celebrating the International Day of Military Journalists.
Initially launched in 2011 by the Izmash factory, which later integrated into the Kalashnikov Group as a private entity, the AK-12 project was part of the Russian army's "Ratnik" trials. These trials aimed to advance the Russian military's armament to meet the changing demands and technologies of modern warfare.
The AK-12, a 5.45 mm caliber rifle, is the standard assault rifle of the Russian armed forces, particularly the infantry and other units. Introduced as a significant evolution of the AK system, this model stands out for its ergonomics, precision, and adaptability for continuous use throughout the day. Since 2018, the Russian military has been undergoing reequipment with these rifles, marking a major step in the modernization of its equipment.
The AK-12 is designed with a barrel length of 415 mm and weighs 3.7 kg. It is part of the Ratnik equipment kit, representing the pinnacle of AK system development. Its features include a free-floating handguard with Picatinny rails, allowing the installation of various additional equipment such as bipods, tactical lights, or grips while improving barrel ventilation.
The rifle has an adjustable folding buttstock, allowing for personalized adaptation to each shooter and enhancing maneuverability. The dust cover is also equipped with a Picatinny rail, designed for mounting red-dot, telescopic, and night vision sights. The AK-12's muzzle brake reduces recoil and barrel rise while masking flashes, contributing to the weapon's discretion and effectiveness.
With a magazine capacity of 30 rounds and using 5.45x39 mm cartridges, the AK-12 has a total length of 875-935 mm with the buttstock unfolded and 690 mm with the buttstock folded. Its sighting range extends up to 800 meters. The AK-12's barrel features four grooves with a 0.05 mm chrome lining, ensuring its durability and performance.
The rifle operates with a long-stroke gas piston and offers several firing modes: single-shot, two-shot bursts, or automatic fire. Its rate of fire is 700 rounds per minute. The AK-12 is equipped with closed/diopter iron sights, and the rear sight is adjustable.
To complete its functionalities, the AK-12 has a single-action trigger mechanism, a right-side single safety switch, and an adjustable folding polymer buttstock. It is also compatible with a grenade launcher, a cleaner, and a cleaning kit integrated into the pistol grip, and can be equipped with an optional bayonet.
