RAE 2013: KBP adopts bullpup design, subsonic rounds for VKS rifle

Russia's KBP Instrument Design Bureau unveiled a new suppressed, compact, anti-materiel rifle at the Russian Arms Expo 2013 exhibition in Nizhny Tagil, Russia, in late September.

The VKS is a 12.7 mm weapon that has been designed with a very large integral suppressor, which, a company engineer toldIHS Jane's , reduces the noise and flash signatures to almost zero.

The weapon incorporates a number of unusual design characteristics for an anti-materiel rifle, including a 'bullpup' configuration and the use of subsonic ammunition.

According to the engineer, the VKS is optimised for use in urban and confined spaces, and as well as its anti-materiel role can be used as a traditional sniper rifle.