The Russian Army primarily uses the 5.45×39mm ammunition type. This specific cartridge is standard issue for many of their assault rifles and light machine guns.
The 5.45×39mm Cartridge: An Overview
The 5.45×39mm is an intermediate cartridge developed in the Soviet Union during the early 1970s. It was designed to replace the older 7.62×39mm cartridge as the standard for infantry small arms. The design philosophy behind this smaller, lighter round was to achieve flatter trajectories, higher muzzle velocity, and reduced recoil, making automatic fire more controllable.
Key Characteristics of 5.45×39mm:
- Caliber: 5.45mm (.214 inches)
- Case Length: 39mm
- Purpose: Primarily for assault rifles and light machine guns.
- Benefits:
- Reduced Recoil: Allows for greater control during sustained automatic fire.
- Flatter Trajectory: Improves accuracy at longer ranges compared to the 7.62x39mm.
- Lighter Weight: Soldiers can carry more ammunition.
- Terminal Ballistics: Known for its unique tumbling effect upon impact, increasing tissue damage.
Firearms Chambered in 5.45×39mm Used by the Russian Army
The 5.45×39mm cartridge is the standard for a range of modern Russian military firearms, forming the backbone of their infantry arsenal.
Primary Service Rifles:
- AK-74 Series: The original rifle designed to chamber the 5.45×39mm. It has seen extensive service and various modifications.
- AK-12: The latest iteration of the Kalashnikov rifle, adopted by the Russian Army, which is prominently chambered in 5.45×39mm. It offers improved ergonomics, modularity, and accuracy.
- AK-105 Carbine: This shorter-barreled carbine, also chambered in 5.45×39mm ammunition, is used domestically by the Russian Army. It is produced at Izhmash factories in Izhevsk, Russia, and provides a more compact option for specialized roles or close-quarters combat.
Other Notable Firearms:
- RPK-74: A light machine gun variant of the AK-74, providing squad automatic weapon capabilities.
- RPK-16: A modern light machine gun based on the AK-12 platform, also chambered in 5.45×39mm.
Below is a table summarizing key ammunition details and associated firearms:
| Ammunition Type | Key Characteristics | Primary Firearms (Russian Army) |
|---|---|---|
| 5.45×39mm | Intermediate, reduced recoil, flat trajectory | AK-74, AK-12, AK-105 (carbine), RPK-74, RPK-16 |
This cartridge remains a vital component of the Russian military's small arms strategy, balancing firepower with modern battlefield requirements.
