Modernized Vityaz: Kalashnikov Concern's New PPK-20 9mm SMG

Kalashnikov Concern has just published a press release announcing that a new modernized version of the 9mm Vityaz SMG has successfully passed the government trials. The new iteration of the submachine gun is called PPK-20. The trials were held within the R&D program called “Vityaz-MO” (Витязь-МО). As a result of the trials, the PPK-20 was approved as suitable for mass production.

PPK in the model designation stands for Pistolet-Pulemyot Kalashnikova (Пистолет-Пулемет Калашникова) which translates Kalashnikov Submachine Gun. However, the gun is not named after Mikhail Kalashnikov, but his son, Victor Kalashnikov, who was the head designer of Vityaz SMG which in its turn is based on his earlier designs – the Bizon family of submachine guns. The model designation was suggested by the trials committee as a tribute to Victor Kalashnikov who passed away in March of 2018.

Compared to the Vityaz SMG, the PPK-20 submachine gun has some ergonomic improvements that include an AK-12 style pistol grip, and a new folding and adjustable polymer stock. As seen in the picture above, the stock folds to the left side of the gun and has at least six adjustment positions. It also features an ambidextrous QD sling swivel socket at its base. Interestingly, Kalashnikov Concern has recently released the civilian TR9 Paradox carbine which has a version equipped with an identical stock. In the description of TR9, the stock is called AK-EVO (АК-ЭВО).

According to Kalashnikov Concern, the design of PPK-20 addresses some manufacturing-related issues that were revealed during the mass production of Vityaz-SN. The overall reliability of the new SMG is also increased compared to the Vityaz. The PPK-20 will come standard with a suppressor and it looks like the gun also has a new muzzle device that allows for a quick suppressor attachment. The new SMG will be supplied with a single to two-point sling and a bag for storing the magazines, suppressor, oil bottle and other accessories.

Images by Kalashnikov Media, www.kalashnikov.media