The 7.62 mm AK-308, based on the 7.62 mm AK-15, is an assault rifle chambered for 7.62x51 rifle cartridges.
A major break from the traditional Russian small arms design was marked on June 18, 2025, when the Russian arms manufacturer Kalashnikov Concern announced major improvements to its AK-308 assault rifle, chambered for the 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge.
This development, as reported by Kalashnikov’s press service, positions the AK-308 as a versatile platform designed for export to nations seeking NATO-compatible weaponry, raising concerns about Russia’s strategic intentions in a highly competitive global arms market.
The AK-308, which was first unveiled in 2018 at the Army-2018 expo in Moscow, is based on the AK-103 and AK-12, combining the rugged reliability of Kalashnikov’s iconic designs with modern tactical improvements.
The rifle’s use of the 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge, a calibre widely used by Western militaries, distinguishes it from Russia’s standard 5.45x39mm and 7.62x39mm ammunition.
This decision reflects a deliberate attempt to appeal to countries like India, Pakistan, and Brazil, which are increasingly aligning their arsenals with NATO standards.
Upgraded AK-308
According to Kalashnikov, the upgraded AK-308 is currently undergoing qualification tests, with serial production scheduled to begin shortly.
The announcement highlights a broader trend of non-NATO countries adopting Western calibres, such as Serbia’s exploration of 6.5x39mm rounds, indicating a shift in global small arms standardisation.
The modernised AK-308 incorporates several design enhancements derived from the AK-12’s battlefield performance. The rifle has an extended forend for better grip and control while firing, responding to feedback from soldiers engaged in high-intensity urban combat.
A foldable, adjustable buttstock with a cheek rest increases adaptability to different shooter profiles and environments.
The Picatinny rail on the receiver cover allows for the mounting of modern optics such as red dot or thermal sights, bringing the AK-308 in line with current tactical requirements.
A The dioptric sight improves aiming precision, and the magazine with transparent windows allows shooters to quickly monitor ammunition levels—an important feature for long-term engagements.
I These changes, inspired by Russia’s “special military operation” in Ukraine, aim to enhance ergonomics and combat effectiveness. breaking news.
NATO Standard
The technical specifications of the AK-308 position this rifle as a strong contender in the battle rifle category. It is chambered for the 7.62x51mm NATO round, which provides better penetration and range than the 5.45x39mm used in the AK-12 or the 7.62x39mm of earlier Kalashnikov models.
The heavier 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge has a muzzle velocity of about 2,800 feet per second and a muzzle energy of more than 2,600 foot-pounds. Designers built it to strike targets up to 600 metres away with precision.
M Moreover, this cartridge can penetrate modern body armour effectively. T The 5.45x39mm round used in the AK-12 generates a muzzle energy of approximately 1,000 foot-pounds. It has less recoil and holds more bullets, but it doesn’t have the stopping power of the 7.62x51mm.
Western rifles, such as the FN SCAR-H or M110 SASS, may require more maintenance in challenging environments like mud, sand, or freezing weather. T The design of the AK-308 retains the rotating bolt mechanism that operates on gas, a feature commonly found in Kalashnikov rifles. This update makes sure it’ll work.
The AK-12’s evolution, especially the 2023 model, which was improved based on feedback from Russian troops in Ukraine, had a big impact on the AK-308’s development. T The Russian military first deployed the AK-12 in 2018. The weapon was easier to assemble, featured improved ergonomics, and included a safety mechanism that functioned for both right- and left-handed users.
In trench warfare and urban combat, however, the AK-12 encountered several issues, including the need for quicker ammo checks and a better grip. The AK-308 upgrades were a direct application of these lessons, according to Kalashnikov’s press service, with engineers at the company’s Design and Technology Centre integrating design solutions for both platforms.
AK-12’s combat tests
The need for rifles that can engage fortified positions and armoured personnel was brought to light by the AK-12’s combat tests, especially in the Sumy and Kharkiv regions. The AK-308’s larger calibre is better suited for this role.
Kalashnikov rifles have long been known for their dependability and simplicity; since the late 1940s, armies all over the world have been equipped with the AK-47 and its derivatives. The AK-308 is a modernised version of this legacy that adapts to the realities of contemporary warfare.
The 7.62x51mm cartridge was first developed for NATO’s M14 rifle. It was later used in weapons like the FN FAL and M240 machine gun. This round offers a strong balance of range and lethality for conventional and asymmetric warfare.
Unlike the AK-12, Russia’s standard infantry rifle, the AK-308 seems aimed mainly at export buyers. Reports from 2018 and 2019 suggest India was a major target market for the AK-308. New Delhi sought to replace its ageing INSAS rifles with modern 7.62x51mm platforms.
India already has a joint venture with Kalashnikov to produce 600,000 AK-203 rifles in 7.62x39mm. However, the AK-308’s NATO compatibility could appeal more to countries outside Russia’s traditional markets.
NATO caliber
The decision to chamber the AK-308 in NATO calibre is not a new one. In the 1990s, Kalashnikov chambered the AK-101 in 5.56x45mm NATO calibre to attract foreign buyers. It worked only a little bit.
However, Kalashnikov adopted a more targeted approach with the AK-308, designing it specifically for countries such as India, which has a history of purchasing Russian military technology, including naval frigates and S-400 air defence systems.
The rifle’s compatibility with NATO ammunition could simplify logistics for nations transitioning from Soviet-era arsenals, as seen in Ukraine, which has begun to use Czech-made Bren 2 rifles in 5.56x45mm to reduce reliance on Russian calibres.
The AK-308’s upgrades reflect broader trends in modern warfare, where urban operations and counterinsurgency necessitate versatile, modular platforms.
The Picatinny rail brings the rifle in line with Western standards, allowing for the integration of advanced optics and accessories such as the Russian-made 1P87 red dot sight, which was demonstrated on prototypes.
However, the rifle’s reliance on domestic components calls into question its ability to compete with Western systems such as the FN SCAR-H and Beretta ARX160, which have access to cutting-edge electronics.
AK-308
Sanctions imposed on Russia since 2014 and set to increase after 2022 have limited Kalashnikov’s access to high-precision components, potentially limiting the AK-308’s ability to integrate smart optics or networked systems.
In contrast, the U.S. Army’s Next Generation Squad Weapons [NGSW] program, which introduced the XM7 rifle at 6.8x51mm, emphasises integration with augmented reality sights and drone-linked targeting systems, setting a high standard for future small arms.
The AK-308 is still useful on the battlefield because it can handle modern threats, like enemies wearing IV-level body armour that can withstand smaller calibres (like 5.56 x 45 mm).
The 7.62x51mm round is particularly effective in situations like those in Ukraine, where Russian troops encounter fortified positions and defences supported by drones. This is because it can go through ceramic plates and hit targets from a long distance.
Public analyses indicate that the Russian infantry now relies heavily on stronger firepower to counter the evolving tactics used by Ukrainian forces on the battlefield. Moreover, they aim to neutralise threats posed by Ukrainian FPV drones.
Experts predict that FPV drones will be responsible for 60–70% of Russian equipment losses by early 2025. The AK-308’s design, with its emphasis on dependability and stopping power, could complement these evolving tactics, though its effectiveness against drone-heavy warfare is unknown.
Russian Exports
Geopolitically, the AK-308 shows Russia’s intent to stay competitive in the global arms market despite major constraints.
Russia continues to export weapons despite facing economic sanctions and having limited access to modern military technologies. Kalashnikov’s press team confirmed “constant high interest” from foreign clients during recent announcements.
However, the press team did not reveal which specific countries or contracts are currently under negotiation. India likely remains a key prospect, given strong defence ties and ongoing procurement projects.
In 2024, India received 35,000 AK-203 rifles as part of a joint Indo-Russian venture. Moreover, India expects an additional 20,000 rifles by March 2025, indicating continued cooperation.
Middle Eastern and African countries are also showing a growing interest in Russian small arms. For example, Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited noted regional demand for the AK-203.
However, the AK-308 faces stiff global competition from manufacturers aligned with NATO. Western firms like Beretta and CZ offer advanced rifles with modern ergonomics and integrated electronics.
Chinese QBZ-191
Additionally, China now promotes its QBZ-191, chambered in 5.56x45mm, using reliable global components and strong political influence.
Kalashnikov must ensure the quality of the AK-308, even while facing harsh sanctions on components and manufacturing. F Fortunately, the AK-308 rifle reuses parts from the AK-12, which helps to reduce production complexity and costs. That gives Kalashnikov an edge in affordability over custom-built foreign competitors.
However, exporting NATO-calibre rifles presents strategic risks to Russia’s defence posture. Supplying these weapons to unstable governments may lead to negative consequences if the systems are captured or reverse-engineered. The Soviet Union faced similar issues when its AK-47 was copied and distributed globally.
Moreover, some buyers might hesitate because the AK-308 relies on Russian-made optics and proprietary accessories. Western militaries prefer weapons compatible with global supply chains and NATO-standard attachments.
For instance, India’s INSAS replacement programme also considered the SIG Sauer 716 a competitive alternative.
That rifle uses the same 7.62x51mm round and supports fully modular NATO accessories.
Ultimately, Kalashnikov must strike a balance between maintaining export relevance and preventing technology leaks.
Reliability
The success of the AK-308 depends on combining affordability, reliability, and diplomatic outreach in contested defence markets. If done right, the AK-308 could still earn a place in the arsenals of non-Western and budget-conscious nations.
The conflict in Ukraine influences the larger military modernisation initiatives of Russia, including the development of the AK-308. R Russian forces received the updated AK-12 model in January 2023, which included several critical improvements. Soldier feedback prioritised simplicity and durability over complex firing modes.
Therefore, the designers removed the two-shot burst feature from the updated rifle. To improve dependability in combat, they also swapped out the old muzzle for a fixed, non-removable one.
Kalashnikov engineers built the AK-308 on the AK-12’s foundation, adding upgrades for long-range performance and power.
However, the AK-308’s larger calibre increases recoil and limits magazine capacity compared to lighter ammunition like 5.45 mm rounds.
Meanwhile, its Western rival, the FN SCAR-H, offers a 20-round magazine and interchangeable barrels for mission flexibility.
Although the AK-308 maintains durability, it lacks the modularity modern combat scenarios often require.
Therefore, it may not appeal to forces prioritising adaptability in dynamic battlefield conditions.
Russian Airborne Forces
Operationally, the AK-308 fills a gap left by short-range carbines like the AK-12K. Russian Airborne Forces adopted the AK-12K in June 2025 for urban operations requiring enhanced mobility.
However, the AK-12K trades range for compactness, making the AK-308 more suitable for open terrain and defensive roles. Recent combat in the Sumy region shows Russian forces favour heavy firepower over mobility in prolonged engagements.
Accordingly, the AK-308 supports this approach but adds weight, which could reduce effectiveness in fast-paced assaults.
Ukrainian troops, for instance, favour lighter weapons, like the Czech-made Bren 2, in high-speed operations.
Despite its weight, the AK-308 could still serve well in fixed positions, where manoeuvrability matters less.
Currently, the rifle is undergoing qualification trials that began earlier in 2025 and will continue through mid-year testing. Engineers are testing for durability, accuracy, and reliability under extreme conditions, which Kalashnikov rifles are known to endure.
If the tests succeed, production could begin by late 2025 or early 2026, aligning with the deliveries of AK-12 upgrades. Still, Kalashnikov must scale up output without compromising quality, a challenge under current international sanctions.
Kalashnikov faces competition
Historical data from the delayed AK-203 programme indicates that similar logistical problems may hinder the rollout of the AK-308. Additionally, Kalashnikov faces competition from smarter Western systems, like the U.S. Army’s XM7, equipped with digital battlefield sensors.
The conventional design of the AK-308 ensures reliability, but it lacks the advanced integration capabilities that next-generation NATO weapons offer. Moreover, Russia’s limited access to microelectronics makes integrating smart optics or networked sensors nearly impossible.
Conclusion
Consequently, the AK-308 may not meet modern military expectations in network-centric warfare environments.
That being said, its NATO-standard calibre and robust build could still attract buyers from developing nations seeking affordable solutions.
Kalashnikov now faces the dual challenge of proving technical reliability and competing in a fast-evolving global market.
If it passes ongoing trials and secures export contracts, the AK-308 could still play a major role.
India, a long-time Kalashnikov customer, may become a key buyer if the rifle proves dependable in field trials.
Ultimately, the AK-308 mirrors Russia’s broader struggle to modernise its infantry weapons amid global sanctions and shifting combat needs.
Therefore, Kalashnikov must innovate within constraints and show the world that its legacy weapons can still stay relevant.
References
- Kalashnikov Concern Official Website
- Army-2018 Expo Report – TASS
- India-Russia AK-203 Rifle Deal – The Hindu
- Next Generation Squad Weapons (NGSW) – U.S. Army
- Kalashnikov Showcases AK-308 – The Firearm Blog
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