Russia: Rosgvardiya to acquire Kalashnikov AK-204 carbines.

Russia`s National Guard (Rosgvardiya) is planning to acquire a batch of Kalashnikov AK-204 carbines developed by the Kalashnikov Group (a subsidiary of Rostec state corporation), according to Russian media outlets. A source from the service said the Rosgvardiya would buy the AK-204 carbines "at an early date". He did not specify neither terms nor number of the firearms set to be acquired.

The AK-204 carbine is a shortened variant of the AK-203 and has the same empty weight. Like the AK-203 assault rifle, the AK-204 carbine has non-detachable iron sights. (Picture source: Kalashnikov)

Compared to the renowned AK-100-family firearms, the AK-200 assault rifles have received a more convenient folding telescopic buttstock and reinforced upper receiver with MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rails. The handguard of the new weapons has also been fitted with Picatinny rails, which allow using of red-dot/reflex sights, weapon flashlights, laser pointers, and tactical grips. The AK-200 family comprises several firearms, including the AK-200 baseline assault rifle chambered for M1974 (5.45x39) cartridge, the AK-201 assault rifle chambered for STANAG 4172 (5.56x45), the AK-203 assault rifle chambered for M43 (7,62x39), and the AK-204 carbine chambered for M43.

The AK-204 carbine is a shortened variant of the AK-203 and has the same empty weight. The firearm features a length varying between 775 mm and 835 mm (depending on the position of the telescopic buttstock) and a barrel length of 314 mm. Like the AK-203 assault rifle, the AK-204 carbine has non-detachable iron sights. The AK-204 carbine was unveiled at the Army 2018 international military-technical forum held in Kubinka near Moscow in late August.