For Western partners. Kalashnikov introduces a submachine gun chambered for NATO cartridges
Russia, June 19, 2025 – Kalashnikov has upgraded the AK-308 assault rifle chambered for 7.62 mm. The concern’s press service reported this. Kalashnikov specialists decided to upgrade the AK-308 assault rifle, developed for the 7.62×51 mm NATO cartridge (.308 Win). This weapon was created specifically for deliveries to countries using NATO-style weapons. The decision to upgrade was made after upgrading the AK-12 in 2018 to the 2023 version following the results of the NWO. Serial production of the AK-308 will begin after qualification tests.
As stated in the concern, the AK-308 received an extended forend, an adjustable and folding stock from the AK-12 with an adjustable cheekpiece, a Picatinny rail was installed on the upper part of the weapon, the magazine received windows for visual control of the number of rounds. A diopter sight was also borrowed from the AK-12.
“The 7.62 mm Kalashnikov AK-308 assault rifle is a self-contained weapon. It is designed to destroy manpower and destroy the enemy’s firepower. It is important to note that interest from foreign customers in this product remains at a consistently high level,” the statement said.
Characteristics of the AK-308 assault rifle:
caliber 7.62 mm
ammunition 7.62×51 NATO
weight of the assault rifle without cartridges 4.3 kg
overall length 885 – 945 mm
length with folded stock – 705 mm
barrel length 415 mm
magazine capacity 20 rounds
Peter Weiss
