Russia’s Kalashnikov Doubles Weapons Production in H1 2024

In the first half of this year, the production of Kalashnikov Concern’s entire range of military products increased by 50% compared to the same period last year.

The company has shipped an additional batch of the improved AK-12 assault rifles, model 2023, to Russian troops.

As of now, 65% of the 2024 state defense order for this product has been fulfilled, according to a release from state-owned Rostec.

Specialists in the weapons production division have been enhancing technological processes to ensure consistently high product quality. "Fulfilling the state defense order is our priority task," stated Alan Lushnikov, president of Kalashnikov Concern. "Despite the operational changes in the design of the product, dictated by the experience of combat use of the AK-12 in the Special Military Operation (SVO) zone, our specialists have not only maintained the pace of production but also completed the state defense order ahead of schedule."

Related article: Ukraine War Effect? Kalashnikov's 2022 Production Surpasses Past 20 years' Record

The Ukraine war has seen the deployment of various Kalashnikov products, including the AK-74M, a modernized variant of the iconic AK-47. The PKM machine gun, designed by Kalashnikov, is used by both Russian and Ukrainian forces for suppressive fire and defense. Furthermore, the RPG-7 rocket-propelled grenade launcher, often paired with Kalashnikov rifles, is used by various factions in the conflict. Additionally, the AK-12, a newer generation of Kalashnikov rifles, has also been employed by Russian forces in the conflict.

The 2023 improved model of the AK-12 features an adjustable cheekpiece on the stock, allowing for a more comfortable cheek weld when shooting with optics. The safety selector has been revamped, now featuring an ambidextrous thumb lever, while the classic AK safety lever serves as a dust cover for the charging handle slot. The trigger mechanism has been redesigned to extend the service life of certain parts, particularly when the rifle is dropped or an under-barrel grenade launcher is used.

Other notable improvements include a new drum pattern rear sight, featuring a flip aperture with two sizes: 1.8mm for precise and longer-range firing, and 4.5mm for closer ranges and adverse conditions. The handguard has also been enhanced, with a beefed-up lower handguard and the ability to add Picatinny rail sections to its sides. The upper handguard has been redesigned as well, with a front attachment point added to the lower handguard. Lastly, the muzzle device is now permanently attached, featuring a QD suppressor mounting interface, a decision made by the Russian military to replace the detachable muzzle device.