Russia Develops Dual-Bullet 7.62×54R Cartridge Aimed for Anti-Drone Combat

Russia has accelerated the development of a dual-bullet 7.62×54R cartridge specifically designed for anti-drone combat, according to TFB.

Filed in late 2022 by the Penza branch of the A.V. Khrulyov Military Academy of Logistics, the patent aims to increase fire density using two bullets—one weighing 5.1 grams and the other 4.7 grams. The rear bullet is tubular, with the first achieving 860 meters per second and the second 800 meters per second.

These new cartridges are designed to enhance performance in aviation applications, specifically for use in the Yak-B 12.7. They are not compatible with the DShK or NSV due to differences in chamber specifications. The duplex cartridge, intended for 7.62×54mm machine guns, is aimed at increasing fire density.

The new 7.62×54mm duplex design improves on existing concepts for machine guns, enhancing suppressive fire against small, agile targets like drones. However, the approach depends on achieving the right bullet dispersion and faces challenges with penetration power.

The proposed design retains the standard 7.62 caliber, requiring no changes to existing production infrastructure. If successfully implemented, the 7.62×54R cartridge could boost the effectiveness of machine guns in urban combat and counter-drone operations.

If the design achieves its intended goals, it could improve suppressive fire capabilities and overall effectiveness. This could also provide an opportunity to integrate machine gun training and use PKM/PKP on tripods, enhancing weapon performance and prompting changes in infantry doctrine. Should the patent gain traction and enter production, it could ensure the continued relevance of the 7.62×54mm cartridge.

In related news, a growing industry has gained significant attention from militaries worldwide, aiming for large defense contracts. Pump-action shotguns have become a cost-effective solution for soldiers without access to electronic warfare (EW) systems or in situations where EW systems fail.