Russian arms manufacturer Kalashnikov has made significant strides in the development of its AM-17 compact assault rifle, announcing the production of its first batch chambered in 5.45-millimeter ammunition. This advancement brings the weapon closer to full-scale production following its completion of state and military certification, as well as successful field trials in combat zones, particularly in Ukraine.
Reports indicate that the operational feedback from troops in these trials prompted key design adjustments to enhance the rifle’s performance. The AM-17 was conceived in response to specific requests from Russian forces for a compact self-defense firearm suitable for various applications, including use by armored vehicle crews, special forces, and law enforcement agencies.
The AM-17 is designed to fire all standard 5.45-millimeter ammunition utilized by the Russian military. It boasts an effective range of approximately 400 meters (1,312 feet) and a rapid firing capability of around 800 rounds per minute. Its lightweight construction, weighing about 2.5 kilograms (5.5 pounds), coupled with a foldable design that reduces its length to under 50 centimeters (20 inches), facilitates ease of handling in a variety of operational environments—be it vehicles, trenches, or close-quarters combat scenarios in urban settings.
The emphasis on creating lighter and more mobile small arms like the AM-17 aligns with Russia’s broader military strategy, which prioritizes adaptability on the evolving battlegrounds dominated by rapid movement and urban warfare tactics.
In tandem with the AM-17 development, Kalashnikov has unveiled the AK-15 Type 3, an upgraded variant of its 7.62-millimeter AK-15 rifle, which first entered service in 2016. This new model incorporates advancements drawn from the AK-12 gas-operated assault system, featuring modifications such as an updated muzzle device, enhanced sights, an ambidextrous fire selector, and the elimination of the two-shot burst mode.
Similar to the AM-17, improvements to the AK-15 Type 3 stemmed from input gathered from frontline soldiers, possibly informed by ongoing conflicts such as the war in Ukraine. The original AK-15, adopted by the Russian military in 2020, continues to serve in various capacities within special forces and other military units.
Kalashnikov is also broadening its product line with compact alternatives to the AK-15, namely the AK-15K and AK-15SK, which were showcased earlier this year at a defense solutions exhibition in Abu Dhabi. The development of these weapons signifies a concerted effort to meet the demands of modern combat while enhancing the effectiveness and versatility of Russian military personnel in the field.
