KLIMOVSK (Sputnik) – "I expect samples for state testing will be prepared before the end of the year…I think that we will begin preliminary tests of the rifle for the Defense Ministry in 2016," Dmitry Semizorov told RIA Novosti.
TsNIITochMash, one of five arms manufacturers tasked by the Russian Defense Ministry to conduct experimental and design work to improve precision and accuracy, is responsible for testing the overall sniper weapon system.
As part of the program, the agency developed new 7.62x51mm and 8.6x69mm rifles. Standard Russian rifle calibers historically range from 7.62x39mm to 7.62x54mm.
Semizorov said preliminary tests performed for the Federal Guard Service had proved successful.
TsNIITochMash, a major supplier of weapons and ammunition, as well as state-of-the-art Ratnik infantry combat gear, is part of Russia’s state technologies corporation Rostec.
