Ukrainian soldier firing rifle with overlaid weapon schematics; military modernization 2026.
Analytics and Reports, Country Analytics, Military Analytics

Ukrainian Military Small Arms: From Legacy to Modernization in 2026

Executive Summary

The military landscape of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) in early 2026 represents one of the most significant transformations in small arms doctrine and inventory management in modern history. Since the escalation of the full-scale invasion in 2022, the Ukrainian defense establishment has shifted from a force defined by Soviet-era legacy platforms to a hybrid, technologically advanced military that increasingly relies on domestic manufacturing and NATO-standard calibers.1 This report, prepared from the perspective of small arms and foreign intelligence analysis, provides a comprehensive audit of the small arms currently fielded across the various branches of the Ukrainian military, including the Ground Forces, Marine Corps, Air Force, Navy, Air Assault Forces, Special Operations Forces (SOF), and Territorial Defense Forces (TDF).

As of early 2026, Ukraine’s domestic defense industry has achieved a strategic breakthrough, with approximately 76% of centralized procurement spending for weapons and military equipment allocated to Ukrainian manufacturers, a dramatic increase from 46% in 2024.4 The Ministry of Defence (MoD) codified over 1,300 new weapon and equipment models in 2025 alone, reflecting an industrial surge that emphasizes sovereign production of small arms, ammunition, and unmanned systems.5 This surge is supported by an industrial workforce that has grown to over 400,000 personnel, as the state moves toward a goal of 50% domestic inventory across all military branches by mid-2026.3

The current small arms arsenal is characterized by a “mixed-fleet” reality, where units simultaneously manage Soviet-legacy 5.45 mm and 7.62 mm platforms alongside an expanding inventory of 5.56x45mm and 7.62x51mm NATO-standard weapons.9 Intelligence analysts observe a clear prioritization in weapon distribution: elite maneuver units, such as the 30th Marine Corps and various SOF regiments, are almost entirely standardized on Western or high-end domestic platforms like the FN SCAR, SIG MCX, and the localized CZ Bren 2, known as the “Sich”.12 Conversely, the Territorial Defense Forces and reserve components continue to utilize legacy AKM rifles and captured Russian “trophy” weapons like the AK-12, though these are being augmented by new domestic submachine guns like the Fort-230.9

The Macro-Industrial Environment and Standardization Policy

The shift toward a corps-based structure within the AFU—comprising 18 specialized corps across the various branches—has necessitated a more standardized approach to small arms logistics.4 Each corps, generally consisting of five mechanized brigades supported by artillery and specialized unmanned units, requires a reliable and interoperable small arms fleet. In 2025 and 2026, the Ukrainian Council of Defence Industry estimated the domestic production volume at $12 billion, with a target of $50 billion in capacity for late 2026.3 This financial and industrial commitment is primarily directed toward alleviating the dependence on foreign suppliers, particularly for small arms ammunition, which saw a production restart in 2024 for 5.45 mm and 5.56 mm calibers.2

The intelligence community monitors the “Danish model” and other capability coalitions that have provided over $1.4 billion in funding for domestic production in 2025.3 These models allow Ukraine to manufacture Western-designed weapons on home soil, a move that minimizes logistical lag and secures supply lines against Russian strikes on industrial facilities. Despite these strikes, which increased in intensity throughout 2025, the Decentralized production model of the Ukrainian small arms industry has remained resilient.3

Industrial Category2022 Output2024 Output2026 Projected Capacity
Overall Defense Production$1 Billion$9 Billion$50 Billion
Small Arms Types CodifiedLimited~30 Models>50 Models
Domestic Procurement Share<30%46%>76%
Ammunition Types Codified<50~100>270

The codification of 13 new small arms models in 2025 signifies a mature R&D environment where domestic firms like RPC Fort, Zbroyar, and Mayak are increasingly displacing older Soviet-standard equipment.5

Ukrainian Ground Forces (ZSU): Small Arms Doctrine and Distribution

The Ground Forces remain the largest consumer of small arms within the AFU. The transition from a brigade-based to a corps-based structure (thirteen corps as of 2026) has led to a more stratified distribution of weaponry.4 The primary assault rifle for the Ground Forces remains a combination of modernized AK-74 variants and the domestic UAR-15.9

Standard Infantry Rifles and Carbines

The UAR-15, manufactured by Ukrop LLC (the military arm of Zbroyar), has emerged as the definitive modern rifle for mechanized and armored brigades. Produced with American-made components from Daniel Defense—specifically the barrels and trigger mechanisms—the UAR-15 offers superior accuracy and ergonomics compared to the Kalashnikov series.19 Its modular layout allows for the attachment of Western optics, suppressors, and laser aiming devices, which are now standard-issue for front-line Ground Forces units.18

In addition to the UAR-15, the IPI Malyuk, a bullpup conversion of the AK platform, is widely used by Ground Forces personnel who prioritize maneuverability in urban combat or armored vehicle operations.9 The Malyuk is chambered in 5.45 mm, 5.56 mm, and 7.62 mm, allowing it to integrate into various logistical chains as units transition between calibers.9

Support and Suppression Weapons

Ground Forces squads rely heavily on the Fort-401 light machine gun, a licensed variant of the Israeli IWI Negev.23 Its ability to feed from both belts and STANAG magazines provides a tactical flexibility that the Soviet-legacy RPK lacked. For general-purpose roles, the PKM remains prevalent, but it is increasingly augmented or replaced by the FN MAG and MG5, particularly in units equipped with Western-donated armored vehicles.9

Weapon ClassStandard PlatformCaliberOriginStatus
Assault RifleUAR-155.56x45mmUkraine/USAHigh-priority issue
Assault RifleAK-74 / AK-74M5.56x45mmSoviet UnionUbiquitous legacy
Bullpup RifleIPI MalyukVariousUkraineUrban/Mechanized
LMGFort-401 (Negev)5.56x45mmUkraine/IsraelStandard squad support
GPMGPKM / PKP7.52x54mmRSoviet UnionHeavy suppression

The adoption of 40 mm and 84 mm NATO-standard grenade launchers has also revolutionized the Ground Forces’ small-unit tactics. Over 10 models of grenade launchers were codified in 2024, including the Fort-600, which is used for both anti-infantry and specialized anti-drone roles.21

Marine Corps and Naval Infantry: The 30th Marine Corps Inventory

The 30th Marine Corps, commanded by Maj. Gen. Dmytro Delyatsky, represents one of Ukraine’s most elite conventional formations.16 Unlike the broader Ground Forces, the Marine Corps has benefited from a more rapid standardization on Western platforms, largely due to their role in amphibious operations and high-intensity bridgehead defense.

The CZ Bren 2, specifically the “Sich” variant assembled in Ukraine, is the primary rifle for Marine personnel.13 The Marines favor the Bren 2 for its reliability in saline and humid environments, as well as its ambidextrous controls, which are critical for ship-to-shore transitions and close-quarters combat.24 The Bren 2’s modularity allows for the quick change of barrels and calibers, a feature the Marine Corps utilizes to maintain compatibility with NATO partners during riverine and coastal operations.13

In addition to the Bren 2, the Marine Corps utilizes the FN SCAR-L and SCAR-H in significant numbers.9 The SCAR-H, chambered in 7.62x51mm, provides the increased range and terminal ballistics required for coastal defense and long-range engagement on the open terrain of the southern front.

SystemModelCaliberRole
Primary RifleCZ Bren 2 (Sich)5.56x45mmStandard Issue
Battle RifleFN SCAR-H7.62x51mmMarksman/Assault
SidearmGlock 17 / Fort-179x19mmPersonal Defense
Heavy SupportM2 Browning.50 BMG / 12.7x99mmMounted/Fixed Support

Air Assault Forces (DSHV): Rapid Reaction and High Mobility

The Air Assault Forces, organized into two corps as of 2025, have traditionally borne the brunt of offensive operations.1 Their small arms inventory reflects the need for lightweight, high-mobility weaponry. The transition from the AKS-74U “Krinkov” to the domestic Fort-230 submachine gun is a notable trend within this branch.15

The Fort-230 is a 9 mm personal defense weapon (PDW) designed for vehicle crews, drone operators, and paratroopers.15 Weighing only 2.5 kg, it is significantly lighter and more ergonomic than the AKS-74U while offering an 800 RPM cyclic rate.15 For primary combat roles, DSHV units are frequently issued the UAR-15 or captured Russian AK-12s, which they favor for their rail systems and adjustable stocks, allowing for easier use with heavy body armor and specialized paratrooper gear.9

The DSHV also utilizes the FN Minimi (M249) as its primary squad automatic weapon, replacing the heavier RPK-74. The Minimi’s high rate of fire and relative portability align with the branch’s doctrine of rapid, high-intensity assault.9

Special Operations Forces (SSO) and Defense Intelligence (GUR)

The Special Operations Forces and GUR units possess the most specialized small arms inventory in the AFU, often utilizing “contract guns” and high-end Western platforms not seen in general issue. A primary signature weapon for these units in 2026 is the SIG Sauer MCX, typically configured with 11.5-inch barrels and integrated suppressors.14

The MCX platform is chosen for its short-stroke gas piston system, which enhances reliability during the extended use of suppressors.31 These weapons are often equipped with Aimpoint Comp M4 optics and 3x magnifiers, providing a force multiplier in both urban and rural reconnaissance missions.14 For suppressed operations, the SSO also utilizes the SIG MPX and the legacy Soviet PB and APS pistols, though the latter are increasingly being replaced by the Glock 19 and the SIG P320.9

Precision Sniping and Anti-Materiel Roles

SSO sniper teams have standardized the Barrett MRAD, a multi-caliber bolt-action system that can be quickly rechambered for 7.62x51mm, .300 Winchester Magnum, or .338 Lapua Magnum.9 This modularity allows SSO teams to tailor their ballistics to specific mission profiles, ranging from personnel interdiction to long-range anti-materiel tasks.

ModelCaliberOriginPrimary UserNotes
SIG MCX5.56x45mmUSAGUR/SSOSuppressed Assault
Barrett MRADVariousUSASSOTier-1 Precision
Snipex Alligator14.5x114mmUkraineSSOAnti-Materiel 34
FN F20005.56x45mmBelgiumGURLimited Issue Bullpup
SIG P3209x19mmUSASSOStandard Sidearm

For extreme distance and anti-materiel roles, the Snipex Alligator (14.5x114mm) and the Horizon’s Lord (12.7x114mm HL) provide unmatched lethality. The Horizon’s Lord, utilizing polymer-jacketed ammunition developed in 2025, offers a lighter weight-per-round and increased muzzle velocity, allowing for precise engagement of armored targets at distances exceeding 2,000 meters.35

National Guard (NGU) and Territorial Defense Forces (TDF)

The National Guard of Ukraine has undergone a rapid professionalization, forming two army corps based on high-performing units like the 12th Azov Brigade and the 13th Khartia Brigade.16 These units have been among the first to receive large batches of the Fort-230 SMG and the UAR-15.15 The Khartia Brigade specifically reported the transition to the Fort-230 as a replacement for the AKS-74 in 2025.23

The Territorial Defense Forces, while receiving modernized domestic arms where possible, remain the primary operators of the AKM and AKMS (7.62x39mm).9 The TDF also utilizes a wide variety of “second-tier” aid, including the Zastava M70 from Yugoslavia and the vz. 58 from Czechoslovakia.9 These weapons, while effective, create additional logistical strain due to their differing magazine and parts requirements.

BranchPrimary Assault RifleCarbine/SMGDesignated Marksman
NGU (Azov)UAR-15Fort-230UAR-10
NGU (Khartia)UAR-15Fort-230UAR-10
TDFAK-74 / AKMAKS-74USVD

Domestic Small Arms Industry: RPC Fort, Zbroyar, and Mayak Plant

The Resilience of the Ukrainian military is intrinsically tied to its domestic manufacturing base. The year 2025 marked a transition from a reliance on foreign “stockpile” aid to a sustainable industrial model.

RPC Fort: The PDW and Licensed Systems Leader

Located in Vinnytsia, RPC Fort is the primary state-owned manufacturer. After decades of producing pistols based on the CZ-75 design (the Fort-12 and Fort-14 series), the company expanded into the production of IWI-licensed weapons including the Tavor (Fort-221), Galil ACE (Fort-227/228/229), and Negev (Fort-401).22 The 2025 mass production of the Fort-230 SMG represents their most successful original military design to date, filling a critical gap in the AFU’s personal defense weapon requirements.15

Zbroyar (Ukrop LLC): The AR-Concept Specialist

Zbroyar has been instrumental in the AFU’s transition to NATO calibers. The UAR-15 (AR-15 concept) and UAR-10 (AR-10 concept) have largely replaced the AK and SVD in high-priority units.19 The company achieves approximately 85-87% domestic production for its components, although it continues to import specialized barrels and triggers for its most accurate variants.36

The Mayak Plant and Diversified Small Arms

Historically a producer of recording equipment, the Mayak Plant transitioned to firearms in 2014 and by 2025 had codified several AR-10 and AR-15 clones (MZ-10 and MZ-15) as well as the unique GOPAK suppressed sniper rifle, which is an AK-pattern straight-pull bolt-action weapon.38 These systems provide the AFU with a low-cost, domestically supported alternative to high-end Western imports.

Technical Specifications of Primary Small Arms Systems

A granular understanding of the small arms fleet requires an analysis of the technical specifications that define their tactical employment.

Handguns and Sidearms

The AFU is gradually phasing out the 9×18 mm Makarov PM in favor of 9x19mm Parabellum systems. The Fort-14TP and Fort-17 were early efforts to modernize the sidearm inventory, but the Glock 17/19 and SIG P320 are now the preferred platforms for combat personnel.9

ModelCaliberCapacityActionStatus
Makarov PM9x18mm8 rdsDA/SALegacy Standard
Fort-14TP9x18mm14 rdsDA/SAModernized Legacy
Fort-209x19mm16 rdsStrikerSSO Issue 22
Glock 179×19 mm17 rdsStrikerElite Standard
H&K SFP99x19mm15 rdsStrikerGerman Aid (3,500 units)

Submachine Guns and Personal Defense Weapons (PDW)

The requirement for compact, rapid-fire weapons has increased with the proliferation of drone operators and specialized armored vehicle crews.

ModelCaliberRate of FireRangeDetail
Fort-2309x19mm800 RPM200 mProprietary SMG/PDW
Fort-2245.56x45mm and 5.45x39mm750 RPM150 mTavor SMG variant
CZ Scorpion Evo 39x19mm1150 RPM200 mCzech Aid/Licensed 13
AKS-74U5.45x39mm650 RPM200 mLegacy PDW

Assault Rifles and Battle Rifles

The primary battlefield tools are categorized by their cartridge and reliability in extreme conditions.

ModelCaliberOriginEffective RangeNotes
UAR-155.56x45mmUkraine400-500 mPremium Standard
CZ Bren 2 (Sich)5.56x45mmUkraine/CZ500 mLocalized Production
FN SCAR-L5.56x45mmBelgium500 m4,000 units delivered
HK4165.56x45mmGermany500-600 m>4,750 units delivered
MSBS Grot5.56x45mmPoland500 mHigh usage, durability issues
AK-745.45x39mmSoviet Union400 mMain reserve weapon

Logistical Challenges: The Mixed-Fleet Reality

Managing a military with over five primary calibers 5.45x39mm, 5.56x45mm, 7.62x39mm, 7.62x51mm, 7.62x54mmRn 12.7x99mm, 12x108mm and 14.5x114mm presents a significant intelligence and logistical challenge.10 By 2026, the AFU has adopted a “battalion-standardization” policy, where each battalion or regiment attempts to standardize on a single caliber to simplify frontline resupply.10

Ammunition Sustainability

The 2024 production restart was a pivotal moment. Ukraine now produces small-arms cartridges for 5.45 mm and 5.56 mm domestically, mitigating the risk of Western supply delays.2 Furthermore, the introduction of polymer-jacketed ammunition by Horizon’s Lord in 2025 has provided a technological edge, particularly for precision and long-range systems.35 However, the domestic industry remains dependent on foreign components for explosives and certain electronics used in modern small-arms accessories like thermal sights and ballistic computers.2

The “Trophy Weapon” Economy

The AFU has formalized the use of captured Russian weapons, particularly the AK-12 and various high-end sniper rifles like the SV-98 and ASVK Kord.9 These weapons are often refurbished by domestic plants and reissued to units already familiar with Soviet-standard calibers, though the lack of a reliable spare parts chain for the AK-12 has led some units to prefer older AK-74 variants.30

Small Arms for Specialized Roles: Anti-Drone and Unmanned Systems

A significant development in 2024 and 2025 was the codification of small arms specifically designed to counter the drone threat. This includes versatile rifle-shotgun hybrids that can engage both infantry and low-flying UAVs.21 The Fort-500 series of pump-action shotguns has seen a resurgence in use for trench-level drone defense.9

Furthermore, the Unmanned Systems Forces (USF), established as a separate branch in 2024, utilize small arms integrated onto ground robotic platforms.4 Remotely controlled PKT and PKM machine guns are now standard on several domestic robotic systems, allowing for “remote lethality” without risking soldier lives in high-threat sectors.42

Proliferation Risks and National Security Controls

With millions of small arms circulating across active front lines, the risk of illicit proliferation is a primary concern for the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVD) and foreign partners.43 Seizures of military-grade firearms and grenades from civilians more than doubled between 2022 and 2025.43

In response, Ukraine launched the Unified Register of Weapons (URW) and formalized the “Law on Ensuring the Participation of Civilians in the Defence of Ukraine” in 2024.11 This legal framework allows civilians to possess weapons found during the war for national defense purposes while establishing strict post-conflict disarmament and registration procedures.43 Intelligence analysts track these developments as a bellwether for Ukraine’s long-term democratic resilience and public safety.43

Conclusion: The Future of the Ukrainian Arsenal

The Ukrainian Armed Forces in 2026 have moved beyond the “emergency procurement” phase of the early war and entered a period of strategic industrialization. The successful transition to NATO-caliber rifles like the UAR-15 and Bren 2 (Sich), the mass production of the Fort-230 PDW, and the development of cutting-edge long-range systems like Horizon’s Lord reflect a military that is now a contributor to global small-arms innovation rather than just a consumer of aid.13

The intelligence outlook for 2026-2027 suggests that the AFU will continue to aggressively phase out Soviet legacy systems as domestic capacity reaches its $50 billion target.3 This standardization will alleviate the logistical friction of the “mixed fleet” and ensure that the Ukrainian infantryman is equipped with platforms that are modular, accurate, and interoperable with Western partners. For the foreign intelligence analyst, the Ukrainian model of decentralized, high-tech domestic production serves as a modern template for national defense in the age of high-intensity, peer-to-peer conflict.

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