The Kalashnikov Concern has delivered a large consignment of 7.62 mm Dragunov sniper rifles with folding stocks (SVDS) under 2026 state contracts. The SVDS is a modern adaptation of the Dragunov sniper rifle (SVD) for the Airborne Forces, Marines and special-purpose units. Since 2022 the SVDS has been in increased demand in the special military operation.

In the SVDS all wooden parts have been replaced with polymer ones; the stock is folding, of frame construction, and fitted with a non-removable rotating cheek piece to make shooting with optics more convenient. The SVDS is equipped with open mechanical sights that allow firing out to 1,200 m. Fire from the SVDS is conducted with any types of 7.62 mm rifle cartridges, but the best accuracy is achieved with sniper ammunition. The weapon is designed to engage personnel and unarmoured targets out to 1,300 m.

Kalashnikov increased production of 7.62 mm SVDS 13-fold in 2025 compared with 2024. Demand for them remains stable in 2026 as well. The undisputed advantages of the SVDS are compactness, light weight, high accuracy, grouping and reliability.

@voenkorKotenok