OREANDA-NEWS. The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Muhammad bin Zayed al-Nahyan became interested in the Russian AK-19 assault rifle and the Lebedev pistol (PLC), the press service of the Kalashnikov concern told RIA Novosti on Thursday. Both types of small arms are shown abroad for the first time.

"During his visit to the international exhibition IDEX-2021, the Crown Prince examined the exposition of the Kalashnikov Group of Companies. His special interest was aroused by the main novelties of Kalashnikov at the exhibition - the AK-19 assault rifle chambered for the NATO cartridge 5.56 by 45 mm and a PLC," they said in the press service.

The prince "highly appreciated the ergonomics" of Lebedev's pistol, and also "got acquainted with interest" with the Kalashnikov-made sniper rifles, the company said.

The new AK-19 assault rifle is based on the AK-12, which was adopted by the Russian army in 2018. AK-19 is equipped with Picatinny rails, a telescopic butt of an original design, a new diopter sight and a quick-release device for silent and flameless shooting.

The PLC is designed for the Western 9x19mm Parabellum cartridge. The compact size of the pistol makes it possible to use it for concealed carry, which is necessary for operational police and special services.