During the Second World War, the Soviet Union developed the 7.62x39mm cartridge. While not the first mass-produced “intermediate” cartridge – a distinction that goes to the German 7.92x33mm Kurz round – the Soviet round was among the most prolific cartridges due to its use with the SKS, AK-47, and AKM.
Though the 7.62x39mm cartridge was supplemented and then largely replaced by the 5.45x39mm in Soviet and Warsaw Pact service, Russia is now again seeking to replace both of those with a new intermediate cartridge.
Perhaps taking a cue from the U.S. military’s new 6.8x43mm round – which was considered a fair tradeoff, offering greater lethality than the 5.56mm round with less recoil than the 7.62mm NATO round – the Kalashnikov Concern and Tula Cartridge Plant have developed the new 6.02x41mm cartridge. The joint project reportedly began in 2020 and was only unclassified with the publishing of a Russian patent (RU2809501C1).
The Russian-based Kalashnikov Gun Magazine first reported the introduction of the new Russian round in its December 14, 2023 edition.
The patent notes that the rim diameter is 10.7-10.9mm, which is right between the rim diameters of 5.45×39 (10mm) and 7.62×39 (11.43mm) cartridges. The optimal bullet weight range for this cartridge is calculated to be 4.5 to 8 grams (69 to 123 grains).
According to tests conducted by the Kalashnikov Concern and Tula Cartridge Plant, the 6.02x41mm cartridge retains a kinetic energy of 500 Joules for a 6.7-gram bullet at a distance of 900 meters. That would significantly surpass the performance of the 5.45×39 and 7.62x39mm calibers and would be far more effective at longer distances – a major advantage on the modern battlefield.
New Rifle For the New Cartridge
A brand new cartridge wouldn’t have much use without a new rifle, and the Kalashnikov Concern has been developing a rifle known as the AK-22. Based on the AK-12 model, it has adapted to the new caliber. The AK-22 has reportedly undergone rigorous testing, confirming its high performance.
In addition, the Russian-based gun maker has developed a compact version of the SVCH semi-automatic sniper rifle, based on the Chukavin model and adapted it to the 6.02×41. The SVCh rifle – which was developed with input from snipers from several Russian elite Special Forces units – was noted for being offered for three of the most common military rifle cartridges, including the 7.62×51 NATO, 7.62x54R and .338 Lapua Magnum (also known as 8.62x69mm).
The smaller “mini-SVCH,” as it is known at this point, offers increased maneuverability and versatility. It is unclear when the AK-22 or mini-SVCH could enter service with the Russian military.
However, it is important to note that the 5.45x39mm round was developed for the AK-74 – which was introduced in the early 1970s to replace the AK-74/AKM – yet, the 7.62x39mm cartridge and firearms were never completely taken out of service. The Russian military continues to employ the AKM in its war in Ukraine, so while the 6.02x41mm cartridge is meant to replace both of the other rounds, it will likely be used alongside those for years to come.
