Kalashnikov has unveiled is updated Dragunov SVDM 7.62mm sniper rifle

Russia’s Kalashnikov Group (a subsidiary of state corporation Rostec) has unveiled its updated Dragunov SVDM (‘M’ for Upgraded, Modernizirovannaya) 7.62 mm sniper rifle, according to the company’s press department.

Modernized version of Dragunov SVDM 7.62mm sniper rifle at Army-2016 defense exhibition near Moscow, Russia.(Picture source Army Recognition)

“The SVDM is a fire support weapon that is intended to engage manpower and soft-skin vehicles at a distance of up to 800 m,” said the Kalashnikov Group in a statement released on February 28.

According to the company, the SVDM is based on a reliable gas-operating scheme and features chrome-plated barrel and round chamber. “A heavier [compared to the baseline Dragunov SVD — TASS] barrel with an effective muzzle break/flash suppressor increases the sniper rifle’s accuracy and firing balance. The weapon’s handguard and pistol grip are made of polymer. The folding buttstock features adjustable back plate and cheek rest,” said the company.

The SVDM has received a MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rail, which runs over the full length of the weapon’s upper receiver. The firearm is compatible with modern optical and night vision sights. It should be mentioned that the SVDM has retained the original rifle’s side-mounted attaching lug for sighting systems (this component has been removed from the company’s latest assault rifles, AK-12 and AK-15), as well as organic iron sights; a bipod can be additionally mounted under the rifle’s barrel.

The SVDM is chambered for Russia’s traditional 7.62×54R (M1908) rifle cartridge and fed by a 10-round metal magazine of the SVD. The weapon is 1,155 mm long and carries a 550 mm barrel. The sniper rifle weighs 5.3 kg.

The SVDM has been delivered to the Russian military.