Passed NATO Standard Tests, This Multi-Calibre Sniper Rifle Is Ready To Enter Military Service: Reach 1.500 Meters Of Target

KN-12 sniper rifle. (Source: defenceturk.net)

JAKARTA - Turkey's first multi-caliber sniper rifle, the KN-12, is ready to enter the inventory of the Turkish Armed Forces (TSK) this month, according to the manufacturer's official.

The rifle, along with other light and heavy weapons systems developed by the Chemical and Machinery Industry (MKE), was exhibited as part of the EFES-2022 Joint Field Exercise conducted in the Aegean.

Speaking to Anadolu Agency (AA), MKE General Manager Yasin Akdere said, they have completed Turkey's first variable caliber sniper rifle, which was designed and developed according to the needs and demands of TSK.

The rifle, which weighs 7.2 kilograms and measures 1 meter (3.2 feet), can use two different rounds of ammunition, 7.62 and 8.59 millimeters, Akdere said.

Pointing out the rifle has successfully completed tough qualification tests within the scope of NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) standards, Akdere said, "It will enter our troop inventory starting this month."

As a company, continued Akdere, they act with a "complete independence" approach in the field of activity.

Therefore, Akdere said he was proud and pleased to announce they were starting mass production of the domestic 8.59-millimeter ammunition at the Gazi Fişek factory, in the capital Ankara.

Akdere also stated that negotiations and marketing activities regarding the KN-12 are continuing, as they receive important feedback from friendly and allied countries.

"We will significantly increase the export contribution in the defense industry by signing important contracts in the coming days," he said, as reported by Daily Sabah on June 9

To note, with a magazine capacity of five for 8.59 millimeters and 10 for 7.62 millimeters, the KN-12 sniper rifle has a range of 1.500 meters.