A recent post by Kalashnikov.ru shed light on the work of a young engineering student on a proposed light machine gun design. It was an interesting design recently submitted at the M. T. Kalashnikov Izhevsk State Technical University (ISTU), where the annual exchange between academic training and practical weapons development continues to produce promising concepts. The certification committee was chaired by Sergei Urzhumtsev, Chief Designer of Small Arms at Kalashnikov Concern, and included leading designers from the company. The review reflected the close cooperation between the university and the concern, a partnership that gives senior students the chance to work on real engineering tasks before graduation.
At ISTU, future specialists in the weapons industry are often already connected to Kalashnikov enterprises while still in college. Senior students are encouraged to put their ideas into practice and take part in research and development projects as part of the university’s scientific, technical, and industrial training program. Throughout their studies, they are mentored by experienced employees of Kalashnikov enterprises, helping preserve the traditions of the Izhevsk weapons school while preparing the next generation of designers and engineers.
Among the projects presented, one of the most interesting was a light machine gun concept. Visible features on the receiver suggest the use of a PK/PKM-style feed paw assembly, indicating a belt-fed system weapon. However, the layout appears to differ from both the classic PK and the newer RPL-20, with the feed mechanism positioned on the left side of the weapon, at least from what I can tell from the photo.
The design also shows a barrel mounted on top and a gas system placed underneath, hinting at a more traditional operating system than the RPL-20. This may point to a two-stage feed system and the use of a non-disintegrating belt, a Russian tradition. A PK-type main spring assembly is also visible, suggesting that the concept draws on proven engineering solutions rather than attempting a completely new mechanism or simply using off-the-shelf components to speed up development.
Another feature is the retractable stock design, which would be useful for transitioning between prone and standing positions and for use with body armor. The ammunition box is relatively short, possibly pointing to a 5.45x39 chambering, although the exact chambering has not been officially confirmed. As displayed, the weapon is disassembled; it may reveal a removable barrel, possibly a quick-change barrel, unlike the RPL-20.
Overall, the design appears to be an interesting light machine gun, as Russia shows renewed interest in light and assault machine guns, drawing on its experience in the War in Ukraine. Even so, it demonstrates the technical ambition of ISTU’s engineering students and the continuing value of the university’s partnership with Kalashnikov Concern. On another note, the U.S. could also benefit from having its own weapons-design university to develop domestic weapons systems, including missiles, drones, and small arms.
