The main Russian arms concern "Kalashnikov" is modernizing the AK-308 for the 7.62x51 NATO cartridge (.308 Win). This is a noticeable departure from the traditional design of small arms, military expert Boyko Nikolov writes in an article for Bulgarian Military.
The AK-308 will become a universal assault rifle for countries that use NATO weapons. It combines the reliability inherent in Kalashnikov designs and modern improvements.
According to Nikolov, the Russian concern is considering India, Pakistan and Brazil as potential buyers. In addition, the AK-308 may be sold to countries in the Middle East and Africa.
The 7.62x51 mm NATO cartridge provides penetrating power and range superior to the 5.45x39 mm cartridge.
Russian engineers retained the gas-operated mechanism with a rotary bolt in the design of the AK-308. Therefore, the assault rifle can be operated in extreme conditions - in mud, sand, and in sub-zero temperatures.
The 7.62x51 mm cartridge penetrates ceramic body armor plates and hits the target at a great distance. From a technological point of view, the AK-308 is a pragmatic evolution, not a leap forward.
AK-308 specifications:
- Barrel length - 415 mm
- Weight - 4.3 kg
- Cartridges in the magazine - 20
- Sighting range - 800 m
- Rate of fire - 700 rounds per minute
Read more on the topic:
"Kalashnikov" announced the release of a new AK-308 assault rifle
"Kalashnikov" handed over another batch of AK-12 assault rifles to the military
