NPO Izhmash is going to develop a modification of the new AK-12 Kalashnikov assault rifle, which will match the special forces units as much as possible. According to the press service of the enterprise, a sample of such a machine will be presented in the fall of this year, according to RIA Novosti.
On Saturday, at a meeting attended by an interdepartmental working group under the Military-Industrial Commission under the Russian government, Vladimir Zlobin, chief designer of NPO Izhmash, presented the AK-12. After the presentation of the assault rifle, all members of the working group, including representatives of the Ministry of Defense, the FSB and the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, were able to test the weapon during demonstration firing.
During the tests, experts noted that this machine gun proved to be more stable during firing compared to the samples of previous generations (when firing, there is less recoil, when firing in a burst, the machine gun takes away less). Meanwhile, various additions and wishes were voiced related to its completion, which are especially relevant for special purpose units.
According to the press service, on the basis of the proposals made, Vladimir Zlobin promised to develop a new modification of the AK-12, which will best meet the needs of the special forces. An interdepartmental working group will be able to see this sample this fall.
In addition to the AK-12, NPO Izhmash demonstrated to the participants of the working group a new modification of the Saigi-12, which was developed for the Federation of Practical Shooting of the Russian Federation. The experts and athletes present at the firing highly appreciated the smoothbore carbine, and many wanted to buy it.
In August last year, the Izhmash design and technology center began work on the creation of the AK-12, and in December the first sample of this machine was ready. In this weapon, it was possible to implement new design and technological solutions, thanks to which the combat power and effectiveness of firing increased.
The new assault rifle is distinguished by improved ergonomics; Picatinny rails appeared in its design, which are special attachment devices designed to install collimator and night sights, optical sights, target designators and rangefinders, which makes the use of weapons effective at any time of the day. In addition, the assault rifle is equipped with a folding telescopic stock, height-adjustable pad and butt plate.
In the AK-12 assault rifle, the reload handle is installed on both the left and right, thanks to which this weapon can be used by both right-handed and left-handed people. With all this, the AK-12 continues to be a reliable, durable and easy-to-use assault rifle. By the end of this year, factory tests of the modification of the new machine will be completed, and next year this weapon will be presented for state tests, after which the AK-12 will appear in service with the Russian army and its serial production will begin.
NPO Izhmash is a legal entity, it will include the personnel and assets of the Izhmash group of enterprises, the largest of which have been monitored.
The Izhmash Group of Companies (Izhevsk Machine-Building Plant) is an industrial enterprise that is part of the Russian Technologies State Corporation. Izhmash develops and manufactures special and civilian products - Nikonov and Kalashnikov assault rifles, sniper rifles, submachine guns, grenade launchers, guided artillery systems, aircraft weapons, maintenance and repair facilities for guided weapons, as well as special tools and machine tools. Izhmash was founded in 1807.
