Experts of the Moscow Higher Combined-Arms Command School have begun test operations of the Kalashnikov RPK-16 light machine gun, the Russian Defense Ministry said. "The servicemen will undergo firearms and tactical training to assess the technical state and precision characteristics as well as convenience in operation and servicing of these weapons," it said. Upon completion of the test operations, the experts will submit recommendations to the manufacturing plant, which will put the finishing touches on the light machinegun.

Kalashnikov RPK-16 5.45 mm light machine gun (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The Kalashnikov RPK-16 5.45 mm light machine gun has been created on the basis of experience gained in modern armed conflicts. RPK-16 is equipped with a telescopic four-position buttstock, which folds to the left. The Picatinny rail on top of the barrel receiver is fixed firmly in two places to ensure mean point of impact. The RPK-16 machinegun has a forestock with Picatinny rails at the top and at the bottom. It is possible to install detachable rails on the left and right sides.

The machinegun’s design makes it possible to replace the barrel, which exists in two lengths - long and short. With the long barrel the weapon is used as a light automatic gun. With the short barrel, it can also be used as a heavy assault rifle.

A special high capacity drum magazine case - for 95 cartridges - has been designed for RPK-16. Magazine cases of previous modifications, including the one with two tiers and identification windows, are also adaptable to the RPK-16 light automatic gun. RPK-16 can effectively fire in single shots at a distance of up to 600 meters as well as in short rounds and in full auto at a distance of 300 meters. Rapidity of fire can reach 700 shots per minute. The weapon weighs 4.5 kg.