Russian Commandos to Adopt New Underwater Assault Rifles

Russian Commandos to Adopt New Underwater Assault Rifles

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Russia’s army is set to adopt a new assault rifle that performs effectively both on the ground and underwater. The ADS assault rifle, can fire standard-issue 5.45-mm cartridges when above the water with accuracy and effectiveness similar to that of AK-74s.

ADS_amphibious_rifle
Source: Wikimedia Commons

According to Ria Novosti when submerged and loaded with special 5.45-mm PSP ammunition, the ADS outperforms the service-issue, Soviet-designed APS underwater assault rifle in terms of accuracy and ease of handling.

The new rifle is fitted with an integral 40-mm grenade launcher and adjustable iron sights. Its carrying handle is provided with a bracket to mount various types of optical sights. “These rifles will soon enter service with special combat units of the Russian army,” a spokesman for KBP design bureau said Tuesday.

iHLS – Israel Homeland Security

For several decades, Soviet and later Russian combat divers and naval commando units were armed with special weapons for underwater combat. These included the SPP-1 pistol and APS underwater assault rifle, which performed poorly on the surface.

The ADS proved its effectiveness and reliability during extensive field trials by Russian naval commando units, according to a KBP design bureau official. It will replace APS underwater weapons and, possibly, some AK-74M general issue assault rifles in service with Russian special forces units.