Russian National Guard Adopts 2023 Version of AK-12 Assault Rifle.

The Russian National Guard has officially adopted the 2023 version of the 5.45 mm Kalashnikov AK-12 assault rifle, according to a government decree signed on August 28, 2024. This follows the adoption of this rifle by the Russian Ministry of the Interior a year earlier.
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The AK-12 is a modern assault rifle developed in Russia. (Picture source: Kalashnikov)

The AK-12, representing the latest evolution of the AK series, incorporates several technological advancements that improve its performance while maintaining the renowned reliability and durability of its predecessors. With these improvements, the 2023 model is considered the pinnacle of the AK system.

The Russian National Guard, officially known as the "Federal Service of the National Guard Troops of the Russian Federation," is an internal security and paramilitary force created in 2016 by President Vladimir Putin. This force was established to strengthen state control over internal security and to centralize several paramilitary structures under a single authority.

The National Guard is directly subordinate to the President of Russia, which gives it a unique and powerful position within the Russian security apparatus. It was formed by integrating various existing units, including the troops of the Ministry of the Interior (MVD), special forces (Spetsnaz), and other paramilitary units. Its primary mission is to ensure public safety, combat terrorism, control borders, suppress riots and protests, and protect critical installations and high-ranking officials.

In addition to these functions, the National Guard is also involved in arms management and the oversight of private security companies. Its creation was seen by many as a measure to consolidate state power in the face of potential internal threats, particularly popular protests and dissident movements. The National Guard thus plays a key role in maintaining order in Russia, acting both as a police force and a military force under the direct control of the Kremlin.

The AK-12 is a modern assault rifle developed in Russia, designed to be versatile and compatible with several types of ammunition, including 5.45x39mm, 5.56x45mm NATO, 7.62x39mm, and 7.62x51mm NATO calibers. This flexibility allows the AK-12 to be used in various tactical situations, meeting the needs of different users and combat scenarios.

With a total length of 945 mm, which can be reduced to 725 mm when the stock is folded, the AK-12 is designed to be both compact and maneuverable, facilitating its use in confined environments or during mobile operations. Its weight of 3.3 kg makes it a relatively light weapon, contributing to ease of transport and reduced fatigue for the soldier in the field.

The AK-12 offers a variable rate of fire, ranging from 600 to 1,000 rounds per minute, allowing adaptability depending on the combat situation. It is fed by a 30-round magazine, standard for this type of weapon, ensuring a good balance between firepower and portability.

One of the notable features of the AK-12 is its fire selector, located on each side of the weapon, offering four positions: safety, single shot, three-shot burst, and automatic fire. This configuration allows for great flexibility in use, depending on tactical requirements.

In terms of range, the AK-12 is effective up to 625 meters, thanks to its 415 mm barrel, making it a precise weapon for medium-range engagements. Overall, the AK-12 stands out for its robustness, reliability, and ability to adapt to a variety of combat conditions, making it a weapon of choice for modern armed forces.

Alan Lushnikov, President of JSC Kalashnikov Concern, commented on this development by stating: "The adoption of the AK-12 by the National Guard demonstrates the high level of trust our customers place in our weapons. This serves as a powerful incentive for us to continually improve our products and ensure the safety of our servicemen."

The Russian National Guard has officially adopted the 2023 version of the 5.45 mm Kalashnikov AK-12 assault rifle. (Picture source: Kalashnikov)