PKP Pecheneg Replacement, the PKP-M (6P41M)

The modernization of Russian small arms began in 2012 with the Ratnik research and development program. This initiative successfully tested several weapons, including the AK-12, AK-15, A-545, AGS-30, SVD-M, 6P69 and 6P41M, all recommended for adoption. For the 6P41M, the V.A. Degtyarev plant started Pecheneg modernization efforts for a lightweight replacement for the PKP. The Russian Ministry of Defense adopted the 6P41M in 2017; however, very few units have been observed in the field since then.

Russian Machine Gun Use

The PK series fits into Russian machine gun doctrine, as the Army is historically built around offense and maneuver-to-fire. This approach contrasts with most Western armies, as the PK series serves as an automatic squad weapon. This structure gives Russian squads and platoons a firepower advantage over current Western infantry structures. However, practical outcomes have varied, as demonstrated in the Russo-Ukrainian War. Changes will likely occur in Russian machine gun doctrine and structure during and after the conflict.

PKP

The original PKP Pecheneg 6P41 was developed in the late 1990s to upgrade the PKM. It never replaced the PKM, which was designed for air assault and special units. The primary goal of this redesign was to enhance barrel longevity and accuracy, achieving nearly twofold improvement compared to the PKM; I would like to test someday and compare the two. This advancement was made possible by using new barrel steel and incorporating a cooling system to better regulate barrel temperature. Additionally, the bipod was relocated to the muzzle to improve accuracy further.

PKP-M

The PKP and PKP-M are modernizations of PKM, retaining the PKM core and featuring new barrels. The PKP model included two oval cooling holes on the receiver, but this feature has been removed in the PKP-M model.

The proposed modernization aimed to reduce weight and incorporate a Picatinny rail on the feed tray cover. This modification required relocating the rear sight to a position forward of the feed tray cover, allowing for the attachment of various optics. The bipod is removable and offers two mounting positions: one near the muzzle in the forward PKP position and the other in the traditional PKM location on the piston tube. This design provides the shooter with flexibility in choosing mounting locations. Russian studies referenced in the PKP patent have indicated that a forward mounting position can enhance accuracy, which is why the original PKP featured a forward-mounted bipod.

Combat Use

Recent photos have shown the PKP-M popped up in both Syria and Ukraine. In Ukraine, it was deployed during the Battle of Hostomel, specifically during the raid on Hostomel Airport with the 31st Guards Air Assault Brigade.

Barrel

The PKP-M is designed with one barrel per gun, similar to the PKP model, but it reportedly has a shorter barrel life, estimated at around 15,000 rounds compared to the 30,000 rounds of the PKP. The construction materials include specialty alloys similar to those used in the GSh-30 30mm autocannon, specifically 30ХН2МФА and 25Х3МЗНБЦА. A portion of the barrel is shrouded, extending from the gas block to the rear of the front sight block. Below the gas block are a forward bipod mounting point and a unique muzzle device assembly with what appears to be a dual lug attachment, possibly for a suppressor or blank firing device locking on a detent on the bottom.

The rollout of the PKP-M has been very slow. Currently, it is primarily utilized by special forces and air assault units. Factory publications indicate that the PKP-M is being produced alongside the original PKP, allowing both models to be fielded together. However, it remains unclear when the PKP-M will see widespread deployment or when the PKP will begin to be phased out.

I will update you when new information about the PKP-M becomes available, as my current insights are primarily speculative. The PKP-M will meet the needs of infantry units and will represent a substantial improvement that justifies its adoption.