Kalashnikov has significantly enhanced the manufacturing efficiency of its RPL-20 belt-fed light machine gun through the adoption of Metal Injection Molding (MIM) technology. The Russian small arms giant recently announced that factory testing of the RPL-20 using progressive blanks was successful, highlighting the potential of MIM to streamline production. The technology has previously demonstrated its effectiveness in producing components for the AK-12 assault rifle.
According to Kalashnikov, “The use of MIM technology enables the production of finished parts without subsequent grinding, virtually eliminating the need for machining. The surface quality of MIM parts is significantly higher than that of traditional investment-cast components. Moreover, this method allows rapid development of new product lines to meet growing government demand for combat small arms. Kalashnikov continues to implement advanced technologies across small arms, precision-guided weapons, missiles, and artillery through its research and development programs.”
MIM technology involves producing steel and alloy components using high-performance metal powders injected into polymer molds, resulting in precise, high-quality parts suitable for modern small arms manufacturing.
The Kalashnikov RPL family of machine guns includes the RPL-7 and RPL-20 models. Designed for operational versatility, these lightweight machine guns use a continuous feedbelt and can be equipped with modern mission-specific equipment, including optical sights and lights. Key features also include a belt that can be loaded by pulling through without opening the receiver and a folding adjustable stock.
The Russian Military Yearbook 2025, published by the Center for the Analysis of World Arms Trade, emphasizes the strategic importance of technological development in Russia’s defense sector. Defense enterprises not only safeguard the country’s sovereign arms production but also serve as drivers of critical and cross-cutting technological innovation.
RT’s overview of the Military Yearbook notes: “By preserving and modernizing key Soviet-era technologies – and reinvesting arms export revenues into R&D – Russia’s defense industry has become a primary engine of innovation, reinforcing the country’s technological sovereignty.”
With MIM technology now integrated into the production of the RPL-20, Kalashnikov demonstrates its continued commitment to innovation, efficiency, and operational superiority in modern small arms development.
