The Russian military will finally use the latest generation Kalashnikov rifles. The Ministry of Defense have given their approval that these rifles can be issued to infantry, airborne troops and marines. The approval was given after excessive tests were conducted in 2017. This was announced by Kalashnikov Concern last 30 January 2018.

The AK-12’s development started in 2011, with the base initial base prototype being the AK-200. The prototype models based on the AK-200 were abandoned due to a range of defects in favor of the well proven AK-400 base prototype leading to what we now know as the AK-12 and the AK-15.

The AK-12 and the AK-15 rifles are essentially the same rifles. The AK-12 uses the 5.49x39mm ammo whilst the AK-15 fires the 7.62mmx39mm ammo. Both are gas-operated, long stroke gas piston with a rotating bolt. They both have a 5-position adjustable stock, quick detach muzzle brake and compensator, picatinny rails and polymer handguard. As for the magazine, they both also use a 30-round polymer magazine.

The rifles will be part of the Russian Ratnik System or the “future combat system”. Russian soldiers will be equipped with the system by 2020.

Below is the full news release from Kalashnikov Concern:

Kalashnikov AK-12 and AK-15 assault rifles officially approved by Russian MoD

Newest family of Kalashnikov assault rifles, the 5.45mm AK-12 and 7.62mm AK-15, are officially approved and recommended by Russian Ministry of Defense for issue to Infantry, Airborne and Naval infantry troops of Russian Armed Forces. New rifles were developed by “Kalashnikov” group according to the requirements, set during the “Ratnik” program that originally sought new tactical and combat equipment for Russian Special forces. Both AK-12 and AK-15 rifles have successfully passed all tests, including field trials by various units of Russian army and in various climate zones.

New Kalashnikov rifles combine famous, battle-proven high reliability with modern ergonomics, increased hit probability and capabilities to effectively use all modern accessories, from red dot, night and IR sights to underbarrel grenade launchers, forward grips, lasers and flashlights, sound suppressors and more.
AK-12 and AK-15 rifles share most of its arts and assemblies, with key differences being in the ammunition used. AK-12 is chambered for Russian Army standard issue 5.45x39 ammunition, while AK-15 is chambered for older, but still very popular 7.62x39 ammunition. “Kalashnikov” group also designed compact versions of both rifles, known as AK-12K and AK-12K, which are better suited for CQB use by Special Forces, or as Personal Defense Weapons for heavy armament and vehicle crews.

Specifications:

• Caliber: 5.45х39 (AK-12) or 7.62х39 (AK-15)
• Length, overall: 880-940 mm
• Length, shoulder stock folded: 690 mm
• Barrel length: 415 mm
• Weight, with empty magazine: 3.5 kg