Qatar revealed itself to be the first known exporter user of the modern Russian-made Kalashnikov AK-12 assault rifles, said the Centre for Analysis of World Arms Trade (CAWAT).

According to CAWAT’s report, Qatar has displayed what appear to be newly acquired AK-12 assault rifles in a parade to mark the country’s National Day on 18 December.

“Qatar Joint Special Forces (QJSF) armed with new Kalashnikov AK-12 assault rifles chambered for 5.45×39 mm,” – said Russian independent research, information and publishing center.

The AK-12 (GRAU index code 6P70 ) is a modern assault rifle from the Kalashnikov Group, a subsidiary of the Rostec state corporation.

The new assault rifle is being designed as a basic platform for the development of nearly 20 different modifications of the weapon.

In early 2018, the AK-12 made by Kalashnikov Concern was officially recommended by the Russian Ministry of Defense for adoption by the Russian Army. This marked the probable end of a long search for the next rifle for the Russian military.

But, there has been no information about Russian forces using those weapons except for a very small batch of rifles presumably issued for field trials to the Russian National Guard. It was safe to assume that full-scale production will begin in 2019.

Official sources refused to comment on the delivery of the AK-12 to Qatar.