The RPK, which stands for "Ruchnoy Pulemyot Kalashnikova" is a light machine gun designed in the Soviet Union. It is based on the AK-47 design and shares many of its characteristics. Introduced in the 1960s, the RPK was developed to provide a portable, squad-level support weapon capable of delivering sustained automatic fire. It uses detachable box magazines or drum magazines, typically holding 30 rounds, but it can also use larger-capacity magazines for extended firefights.

 The RPK has been widely used by various military forces and insurgent groups around the world due to its reliability, robust design, and the commonality of the 7.62x39mm ammunition with other Soviet firearms. Its legacy includes its role as a versatile light machine gun and its continued use in conflicts worldwide.