MOSCOW, August 24 (RIA Novosti) – Various modifications of a new Kalashnikov AK-12 assault rifle as well as other small arms developed as part of Russia’s “future soldier” gear will pass state acceptance trials in the fall of 2013, a spokesperson for the Kalashnikov corporation said.
Yelena Filatova told reporters Friday that a number of prospective small arms models for the Ratnik gear were shown to Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu during the Russian Defense Ministry’s Innovation Day arms exhibition on August 20 in Moscow.
“After examining the weaponry, the minister confirmed that all small arms developed under the Ratnik project will undergo state acceptance trials in the fall to bring clarity to the fate of the ‘future soldier’ gear,” Filatova said.
The Kalashnikov corporation (former Izhmash company) showcased 15 models of assault and sniper rifles during the exhibition, including four upgraded models of the AK-74 assault rifle, a range of the AK-12 modifications, an upgraded version of the AK-103 assault rifle and the SVDM sniper rifle, according to Filatova.
Ratnik (“Warrior”) comprises more than 40 components, including firearms, body armor, optic, communication and navigation devices, life support and power supply systems and even knee and elbow pads.
The Ratnik gear has been successfully tested by the Russian military but is adoption into service has been delayed due to uncertainty with the choice of small arms component.
