Motorized infantry division receives over 5,500 latest AK-12 Kalashnikov assault rifles
MOSCOW. April 21 (Interfax) - A motorized infantry division of the combined-arms army stationed in the Smolensk region in Russia's Western Military District has received a first shipment of Kalashnikov AK-12 assault rifles, the district's press service said.
"A motorized infantry division of the combined-arms army in Russia's Western Military District stationed in the Smolensk region has adopted into service a first shipment of over 5,500 latest Kalashnikov AK-12 assault rifles," it said.
The division's personnel have undergone special training to operate the new weapons, it said.
The Defense Ministry said on January 8 that the Russian military would receive some 40,000 AK-12 rifles in 2020.
The ministry officially confirmed in March 2018 that it commissioned new Kalashnikov AK-12 and AK-15 and Degtyaryov AEK-971, and AEK-973 (6P67 and 6P68) assault rifles.
The 5.45mm AK-12, 7.62mm AK-15, 5.45mm AEK-971 and 7.62mm AEK-973 assault rifles have been tested to be integrated with the Ratnik combat gear.