7.62mm PKTMTank Machine Gun

Tank Machine Gun

Mission

The PKTM modernised Kalashnikov tankmounted machine gun is designed to equip tanks, IFVs and APCs, adding firepower to the main armament.

General description

Mounted on special mounts, it can be used as a casemate machine gun in pillboxes. PKTM is derived from the PK-based PKT machine gun and features increased service life and greater technological effectiveness.

PKTM can fire all types of 7.62x54mm rounds. The machine gun is fed from a 25- or 50-round metal belt consisting of disintegrating links. Loaded belts are stored in boxes for 250 rounds each.

The machine gun is gas operated. In order to ensure reliable operation in various operating conditions, it is fitted with a gas regulator. Its barrel is blocked by rotation of the breech. A striker-type trigger mechanism is activated by the breech block. It has a rear sear, and provides for automatic fire only. A safety catch blocks the trigger and sear when activated. There is an electronic trigger on the backside of barrel chamber for remote fire control.

The massive barrel ensures intense fire in bursts. Field-stripping for clearing and oiling is possible without dismantling the weapon. Sighting is carried out by means of optical sights of combat vehicles’ main armament.

Basic specifications

Cartridge 7.62x54R Muzzle velocity, m/s 825 Effective range of fire, m 2,000 Empty weight, kg 10.5 Length, mm 1,098 Capacity of belt in box, rds 250 Cyclic rate of fire, rds/min 650