Ukrainian soldiers have begun training and operating with the UAR-15, an AR-15-style assault rifle manufactured in Ukraine.
According to Forces News on August 19, servicemen from the National Guard tested the new weapon, describing it as more practical, accurate, and reliable than the Soviet-designed Kalashnikov rifles long used by Ukraine’s military.
Soldiers noted that the shift reflects the realities of the battlefield, where drones and mobile infantry are the most pressing threats. One serviceman explained that training now includes practice in targeting drones with the UAR-15 to improve combat effectiveness.
Concerns have persisted about the reliability of older Kalashnikov rifles, some dating back to the early 1960s. Soldiers reported malfunctions during training and highlighted the maintenance required to keep the weapons operational.
The UAR-15, adopted by the Ukrainian Armed Forces in 2023, is designed to meet NATO standards. It features a long Picatinny rail for optical sights and accessories, multiple barrel-length modifications, compatibility with suppressors, and a barrel lifespan of up to 10,000 shots.
Military analysts note that the rifle offers significant logistical advantages. It weighs around 600 grams less than the AK, allowing soldiers to carry additional ammunition or supplies during long movements on foot.
Production of the UAR-15 is almost entirely domestic. While barrels are currently imported from the United States, Ukraine’s defense ministry expects local production to begin by 2026.
Earlier, in November 2024, Ukraine began licensed assembly of NATO-standard BREN-2 rifles in partnership with Česká zbrojovka. The agreement includes plans for eventual full production within Ukraine.
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