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Russia to Unveil Latest AK-12K and AK-12SK Assault Rifles.
The Kalashnikov group will showcase its two latest models of assault rifles, the AK-12K and AK-12SK, at the upcoming IDEX 2025 International Defense Exhibition, which will be held from February 17 to 21 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. These two models from the AK-12 series, designed to use the 5.45x39 mm cartridge, will be shown to the public for the first time, marking a turning point in the development of the company's lightweight firearms. Army Recognition will be on-site to provide the latest news from this highly anticipated exhibition.
The AK-12K and AK-12SK are designed to enhance the firepower of modern infantry by offering improved technical, ergonomic, and operational characteristics. (Picture source: Kalashnikov)
The AK-12K and AK-12SK are designed to enhance the firepower of modern infantry by offering improved technical, ergonomic, and operational characteristics suited to the demands of contemporary combat. These rifles have been specifically developed to effectively engage enemy personnel, offering great flexibility thanks to their ability to fire a variety of 5.45 mm cartridges. These include the standard 7N6 bullet, the high-penetration 7N10 bullet, as well as the tracer rounds 7T3 and 7T3M, allowing the weapons to adapt to different combat environments.
Both rifles are equipped with 30-round magazines and can be fitted with a low-noise shooting device (LSD) weighing no more than 0.8 kg. This feature makes the AK-12K and AK-12SK particularly suitable for covert operations where noise reduction is crucial.
The AK-12K, weighing a maximum of 3.4 kg without the magazine, belt, or accessories, has been designed to offer great versatility in the field while maintaining a robust and reliable structure. In combat position, its length reaches 810 mm, providing a good grip while offering increased range and accuracy. However, when folded, the AK-12K measures only 570 mm, making it easier to transport in confined spaces or during operations requiring discretion. The barrel of the AK-12K measures 290 ± 20 mm, providing a balance between maneuverability and ballistic performance, meeting the demands of modern missions.
On the other hand, the AK-12SK, the more compact version of the AK-12K, weighs a bit less, at 3.2 kg without accessories. Its smaller design makes it even more maneuverable, with a length of 750 mm in combat position, offering an easier grip for soldiers in close-quarters tactical environments. When folded, the AK-12SK measures only 500 mm, making it particularly suitable for operations in confined spaces such as urban areas or armored vehicles. The barrel of the AK-12SK is slightly shorter, measuring 228 ± 20 mm, improving its compactness while maintaining high shooting efficiency for mid-range engagements. This reduction in barrel size helps optimize the weapon's ergonomics and portability without sacrificing operational performance.
These new assault rifles are expected to generate significant interest among armed forces and law enforcement units worldwide, combining Kalashnikov's legendary reliability with cutting-edge features that meet the needs of modern combat. The AK-12K and AK-12SK will be available for detailed demonstrations during IDEX 2025, where they will undoubtedly attract the attention of defense experts and international military professionals.