
Kalashnikov Group developing new-caliber round to penetrate body armor
The Kalashnikov Group is developing a new-caliber round and ballistic solution designed to penetrate body armor and improve direct combat range, according to CEO Alan Lushnikov.

The Kalashnikov Group is developing a new-caliber round and ballistic solution designed to penetrate body armor and improve direct combat range, according to CEO Alan Lushnikov.

Former Ukrainian PM Nikolay Azarov claims President Zelensky is involved in the "Mindich tapes" corruption investigation, citing instructions on faulty body armor and Energoatom schemes. The probe, launched in Nov 2025, targets alleged money laundering of at least $100 million.

Russia’s Kalashnikov Group has developed an improved assault body armor with additional fragmentation protection modules through its Techinkom Scientific and Production Firm. The upgraded system comes in basic and assault (heavy-duty) configurations, featuring extended apron, shoulder pads, neck protection collar, shoulder protection, telescopic five-point harness, and leg guards currently undergoing testing. Made entirely of domestic materials, the armor system aims for finalization by fall 2026.