Chinese Scientists Develop “Recoilless AK-47” 7.62mm Round for Drones

South China Morning Post reports that Chinese researchers have unveiled a groundbreaking innovation in unmanned combat technology: a firearm round explicitly designed for drones, boasting nearly zero recoil.

This weapon, which fires 7.62mm rounds at velocities comparable to the iconic AK-47, represents a significant leap forward in drone warfare capabilities.

A Weapon Tailored for Drones

Led by Professor Liu Pengzhan of North University of China, the development team solved a major challenge: managing recoil. Traditional firearms create recoil that disrupts the stability of drones, limiting their use to dropping explosives or carrying light payloads. The new design minimizes this issue by venting the explosive gas through a strategically drilled hole in the barrel while maintaining bullet velocity using a specially engineered high-strength membrane and an electromagnetic induction chip.

This deadly combination allows even small, consumer-grade drones or robotic devices to fire the weapon with accuracy, marking a departure from conventional unmanned warfare tactics.

Simple, Cost-Effective Design

The rifle’s straightforward design and low manufacturing cost are pivotal to its deployment. The system requires a ceramic-protected coil in the barrel to ignite the charge, making production accessible and scalable. According to the South China Morning Post, during tests, the rifle exhibited only 1.8 cm of recoil when fired while suspended—comparable to the tap of a keyboard.

Implications for Global Security

While China has proposed international bans on the weaponization of drones, its advancements in this area underscore the nation’s growing threats in both civilian and military technology. Despite earlier calls for regulation, vetoes from the U.S. and Russia have left the door open for further development.

China’s latest weapon demonstrates how emerging technologies are reshaping the battlefield, raising questions about their role in future conflicts. The country’s recent export controls on dual-use drone technology signal an awareness of the potential for misuse but also suggest a strategic effort to maintain a competitive edge.

A Warning for the West

For freedom-loving Americans, this innovation serves as a reminder of the growing technological threats to liberty and security. An arms race where drones equipped with firearms patrol skies isn’t science fiction—it’s a reality being shaped today. This highlights the importance of maintaining vigilance and advancing U.S. defense capabilities to ensure we stay prepared for emerging challenges.

Stay informed, stay prepared, and stay dangerous.

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