OTs-03AS SVU-AS
TsKIB SOO · Sniper Rifle · In Service · 1995
Also known as: OTs-03AS, SVU-A, Snayperskaya Vintovka Ukorochennaya Avtomaticheskaya Snaiperskaya
Overview
The OTs-03AS SVU-AS is the select-fire variant of the OTs-03 SVU, a bullpup conversion of the Dragunov SVD designed at TsKIB SOO in Tula. Chambered in 7.62x54mmR, the SVU-AS adds a forward-mounted integral folding bipod (the 'S' standing for 'soshka', Russian for bipod) and a dual-mode trigger giving both semi-automatic and full-automatic fire. The compact bullpup layout shortens overall length to 900 mm while retaining a 520 mm barrel, and a combination flash hider / muzzle brake tames the powerful rimmed cartridge. It was developed for Russian Internal Affairs Ministry urban and counter-terror operations.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 5500 g (194.0 oz) |
| Overall Length | 900 mm (35.43") |
| Barrel Length | 520 mm (20.47") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Short Stroke |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 830 m/s (2723 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 3306 J (2438 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 800 m (875 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 1300 m (1422 yd) |
| Rate of Fire | 650 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 240 mm (9.45") |
| Number of Grooves | 4 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Phosphate |
Calibers
- 7.62x54mmR · primary — also known as 7.62x54R, 7.62mm Russian
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic, Full Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: Bullpup Layout, Integral Bipod, Muzzle Brake, Flash Hider, Folding Diopter Sights, Pso 1 Scope Mount, Select Fire
Variants
- OTs-03 SVU — Semi Automatic
Base model
Service history
Operators
- Russian Internal Troops (MVD) · adopted 1995 · as SVU-AS
Conflicts
- Second Chechen War (1999-2009)
Production
Production years: 1995-present
Limited production for Russian internal security units
Origin
Country of origin: Russia
Designer: Lev Bondarev
Notes
The base SVU (OTs-03) is semi-automatic only and weighs ~4.4 kg; the SVU-AS adds select-fire capability and a bipod, raising weight to ~5.5 kg. Rate of fire (650 rpm) applies to automatic mode only, which is intended for short suppressive bursts at close range.
Background
The SVU was originally conceived in the 1970s for Soviet airborne forces who needed a shorter sniper rifle for paratroopers, but the project was shelved until 1991 when it was resurrected for Russia's Internal Affairs Ministry as urban counter-terror work created fresh demand for a compact 7.62x54R marksman weapon.