The improved AK-12 assault rifle, model year 2023, successfully completed scheduled customer tests, after which "Kalashnikov" began shipping another large batch of weapons. The checks confirmed the rifle's compliance with the increased requirements for modern small arms.

The tests were conducted by the "Kalashnikov" Concern as part of a periodic inspection of serial products. Following the assessment, the state customer confirmed the quality and operational characteristics of the assault rifle, which allowed for continued deliveries under the current contract.

In 2026, the enterprise will fully deliver AK-12s according to the established schedule. In recent years, the concern's small arms production has expanded, and the range of products manufactured has significantly increased.

One of the new variants of the assault rifle is the shortened AK-12K version of 5.45 mm caliber, the production of which began in 2025. The compact assault rifle was developed taking into account the requirements of airborne military personnel for use in dense urban areas, assault operations, and confined spaces.

Alan Lushnikov, CEO of "Kalashnikov", stated that the inspection confirmed the rifle's characteristics at the state level and showed that the enterprise is capable of ensuring the production of reliable small arms in the required volumes.

The AK-12 is the main serial assault rifle of Russian production, 5.45 mm caliber. The weapon was created as a development of the AK family, taking into account the requirements of modern operation: the assault rifle received improved ergonomics, the ability to install modern sighting systems and accessories, as well as a number of design changes compared to previous versions.