The shortened AK-12K assault rifle was developed in cooperation with Airborne Forces servicemen, and one of the key participants in this work was the Commander of the Airborne Forces, Mikhail Teplinsky. This was stated by Alan Lushnikov, head of the Kalashnikov Concern.

According to Lushnikov, Teplinsky actually became the "father-commander" of the new AK-12K version. The Concern, together with officers under his command, refined the assault rifle taking into account the requirements for weapons for operations in urban areas.

The shortened version differs from the basic AK-12 by its more compact dimensions and adaptation for close-quarters combat. According to the head of Kalashnikov, in these conditions, the requirements for firing range are not so high, but ergonomics and ease of use of the weapon in confined spaces are especially important.

Lushnikov noted that after refinement, the AK-12K passed tests, after which the Concern launched its serial production. According to him, the entire cycle was completed in a few months, and the first deliveries took place within four months.