Modernised assault rifle versions to be fielded in brigade-level units

Over the past two years, the functionalities of the Finnish-made assault rifle RK 62 have undergone modernisation for optimised utilisability. The new modernised versions of the assault rifle will now be fielded as part of conscript training provided in all Finnish Defence Forces’ brigade-level units

Initiated back in 2015, the assault rifle modernisation aims for optimised utilisability of firearm functionalities and increased service life. The key improvements implemented involve an adjustable stock for bespoke adjustment, connectivity with dismounted combatant equipment as well as modern interface mounts and rails for mounting optics and accessories.

As part of this modernisation, the assault rifle 7.62 RK 62M acquired an adjustable stock, a new fire selector, an optical sight mount, and a tactical sling. In addition, the versions M2 and M3 feature a new fore-end hand guard and a flash suppressor. All the versions of this assault rifle are equipped with optical sights.

With its start in the Guard Jaeger Regiment in 2011, the modernisation involved testing the subsequent assault rifle development versions in the Finnish Army brigade-level units as well as in the Finnish Air Force. The strategic partner of the Finnish Defence Forces, Millog Ltd, was tasked with this assault rifle modernisation that has enabled the Finnish Defence Forces to increase cost-effectively the fire power of dismounted infantry soldiers by means of improved end-user ergonomics, firing engagement speed and mounting of accessories.

The main versions of the modernised assault rifle, namely, RK 62 M1 and RK 62 M2, both feature mounts for optics and general accessories. Of the two, it is the version M1 that will be most frequently utilised as it is designed for first-line dismounted troops, whereas the version M2 equipped with a new flash suppressor and a fore-end hand guard will cater for combat in built-up areas. Furthermore, a breach muzzle brake can be attached to the new flash suppressor allowing for breaking, for instance, concrete steel by firing. Moreover, the fore-end hand guard carries rails that enable mounting bespoke accessories as applicable. Meanwhile, the version M3 features continuing development relating to the coating and hue of the assault rifle.

On the battlefield, the assault rifle stands for the most critical tool and life assurance of every soldier. For more than five decades now, the backbone of our infantry equals the Finnish-made assault rifle RK 62. While modernising this firearm, we have retained both its mode of operation and ammunition. By means of modernisation, the Finnish Defence Forces will continue the commissioned utilisation of this highly accurate and reliable Finnish-made assault rifle on the dismounted infantry front line well into the 2030s. By the same token, this also enables fielding optical sights and modern accessories relating to advancing night-vision combat capability in particular, Inspector of Infantry, Colonel Rainer Peltoniemi points out.

This assault rifle modernisation is carried out in conjunction with the ongoing combatant project in-progress relating to overall improvement of soldiers’ firepower, protection, mobility and sustained situational awareness.

Altogether, the assault rifle modernisation costs will amount to approximately 12.6 million Euros with the share of the domestic added value at 80 percent of the total value of the procurement acquisition project and the employment impact equaling circa 50 person years’ worth of nationally conducted work.