The RPK-16 LMG or Squad Automatic Weapon which is expected to replace the RPK-74 which is in use in the Russian Military, will be adopted by the Rosgvardia or the National Guard of the Russian Federation. It is tasked to secure borders, gun control, counter-terrorism, organized crime, public order and taking watch over important government facilities. The organisation reports directly to the Russian President.

According to Kalashnikov Media, the TASS media agency reported that Alexei Bezzubikov head of the department of equipment and weapons of the Rosgvardia announced that the adoption of the RPK-16 after conducting tests.

Chambered in 5.45×39mm cartridge, the RPK-16 has Picatinny rail-mounted detachable bipod compared to the fixed one seen in the RPK-74.  It is also equipped with a 4-position telescopic stock which can be folded to the left. Whilst it is mainly a SAW, it is also can be used as an assault rifle. It can be equipped with a suppressor and it also has an ergonomic pistol grip.

The length of this LMG can be either lengthened or shortened.  When configured as a support weapon, the barrel length is 550mm and 370mm for CQB or as an assault role. When changing barrels, it only takes a partial disassembly and will take only two minutes to configure to meet the requirements of the task at hand. For magazine, it can be with a fed with a 96-round drum magazine or a 30 to 45 round magazine. It has a range accuracy of around 800 metres.

Here is the news from Kalashnikov Media roughly translated using an online translator:

Following a series of  tests, the Rosgvardia will adopt a light machine gun called the RPK-16. This was reported by TASS agency with reference to the head of the department of equipment and weapons of the Rosguards Alexei Bezzubikov.

The lightweight Kalashnikov light machine gun caliber 5.45 mm created on the basis of the experience of modern armed conflicts. It can be used as a light machine gun, and as an assault rifle.

The RPK-16 is equipped with a four-position telescopic butt, which is folded to the left. Picatinny rail on the cover of the receiver is rigidly mounted in two places providing a stable average point of impact during removal and installation. Handguard with Picatinny slats at the top and bottom with the ability to install removable slats left and right. Replaceable block trunks, which allows you to set the barrel length to 560 mm. The machine gun is completed with various shops. Especially for the RPK-16 the magazine has the increased capacity of the drum type for 95 cartridges was developed. The machine gun is also suitable magazine of the previous types, including two-row with identification windows.