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BULGARIAN MILITARY
The “Kalashnikov” weapons division has delivered a new batch of AK-12 assault rifles to the Ministry of Defense, although the specifics of this shipment remain undisclosed. They emphasized that this year’s state defense order is already 65% complete.
These troops are now armed with an upgraded version of the assault rifle, refined based on insights from the Northern Military District. Serial deliveries for the Kalashnikov AK-12 model 2023 began this January, following comprehensive testing.
“The Kalashnikov concern has delivered the latest batch of enhanced AK-12 assault rifles of the 2023 model to the customer, significantly ahead of schedule. The 2024 state order for this item is already 65% fulfilled,” according to the press center of the renowned Russian manufacturer.
Modernization ‘from the war’
The decision to modernize the machine gun stemmed from its operational feedback in the army; many military personnel were dissatisfied with certain parameters. As a result, a new model of the AK-12 was unveiled in May 2023. Initiated at the request of military members engaged in the special military operation [Russia’s term instead of war or invasion], the design was refined with seven significant changes.
Notably, the two-shot burst mode was eliminated, and a simplified assembly and disassembly scheme was implemented. Enhancements included a more ergonomic stock and front section, a double-sided safety lever, a redesigned diopter sight, and a fixed muzzle device.
Sanctions?
The Kalashnikov Concern, a major Russian defense manufacturer known for its iconic AK-47 assault rifle, has been the target of several rounds of Western economic sanctions. These sanctions are primarily aimed at curbing the company’s ability to conduct business internationally and limiting its access to financial resources.
One of the key measures includes the prohibition of transactions with the Kalashnikov Concern by U.S. individuals and entities. This means that American businesses and citizens are barred from buying, selling, or engaging in any form of trade with the company. This restriction significantly hampers the company’s ability to access the lucrative U.S. market.
The European Union has also imposed sanctions on the Kalashnikov Concern. These sanctions include asset freezes and travel bans on individuals associated with the company. Additionally, the EU has restricted the export of dual-use goods and technology to the company, which could be used for both civilian and military purposes.
Financial institutions in the U.S. and EU are prohibited from providing loans or other forms of financial assistance to the Kalashnikov Concern. This restriction limits the company’s ability to secure funding for its operations and expansion projects, thereby impacting its financial stability.
The sanctions also extend to the prohibition of the transfer of technology and intellectual property to the Kalashnikov Concern. This measure is designed to prevent the company from acquiring advanced technologies that could enhance its military capabilities.
About AK-12
The Kalashnikov AK-12 is a modernized version of the iconic AK-47 assault rifle, developed by the Kalashnikov Concern in Russia. It was designed to improve upon the reliability, accuracy, and ergonomics of its predecessors while maintaining the robust characteristics that have made the AK series famous worldwide.
In terms of dimensions, the AK-12 has an overall length of approximately 880 mm [34.6 inches] with the stock extended and 690 mm [27.2 inches] with the stock folded. The barrel length is 415 mm [16.3 inches], which contributes to its balance between compactness and effective range.
The weight of the AK-12 is around 3.5 kg [7.7 lbs] without a magazine. This relatively lightweight design makes it easier for soldiers to carry and maneuver, particularly in diverse combat environments.
A selective fire mode
The AK-12 is chambered for the 5.45×39mm cartridge, which is the standard caliber for modern Russian military rifles. This caliber is known for its lower recoil and higher velocity compared to the older 7.62×39mm round, making it suitable for both close-quarters and medium-range engagements.
To produce a shot with the AK-12, the operator must first load the magazine into the rifle and pull back the charging handle to chamber a round. The rifle has a selective fire mode, allowing the user to switch between semi-automatic and fully automatic firing modes. Pulling the trigger releases the hammer, striking the firing pin and igniting the primer of the cartridge, which propels the bullet down the barrel.
The operational range of the AK-12 is approximately 500 meters [547 yards] for effective target engagement. This range is suitable for most infantry combat scenarios, providing a balance between accuracy and firepower. The AK-12 is compatible with various types of ammunition, including standard ball rounds, tracer rounds, armor-piercing rounds, and blank cartridges. This versatility allows it to be adapted for different combat situations and training purposes.