A recent image shared by the Telegram channel Ukrainian Special Military showcases a Ukrainian Special Operations Forces (SOF) operator armed with a DShKM-TK, a 12.7mm heavy machine gun modified for increased mobility.
The post, captioned “Our subscriber, a soldier of one of the units of the Defense Forces of Ukraine with a 12.7-mm large-caliber DShKM-TK machine gun. Winter 2025,” highlights a unique adaptation of the Soviet-designed DShK, specifically tailored for modern combat requirements.
The DShKM-TK, or “tactical kit,” represents a significant departure from the standard DShK configuration. Modifications include the addition of a bipod for ground stability, a custom buttstock to improve shoulder-fired control, and a redesigned trigger mechanism for improved ergonomics in a mobile role.
A key feature of the design is a large muzzle brake-compensator, which reduces the weapon’s significant recoil, allowing for greater control during semi-portable operation. These enhancements enable the DShKM-TK to be deployed in prone or crouched firing positions, a capability not typically associated with a weapon of this class.
A captured Ukrainian DShKM machine gun.https://t.co/Pa7zaLzltn pic.twitter.com/1SGxD8mog6
— Rob Lee (@RALee85) May 28, 2022
This is not the first instance of the DShKM-TK appearing in photos from the Ukraine-Russia war. In June 2023, the OSINT twitter account @clooud shared a similar photo of a Ukrainian soldier wielding the modified heavy machine gun. Despite its substantial weight, the DShKM-TK has been configured to provide direct fire support in situations where vehicle-mounted or static configurations would be impractical.
👹😈
IDK what the fuck it’s, but i called it „Russian Bonker-9000“ pic.twitter.com/KSCEj5Vn08
— Cloooud |🇺🇦 (@GloOouD) June 10, 2023
The DShK platform itself remains in widespread use worldwide despite its original design dating back to the 1930s. Its durability and adaptability have led to its continued presence across various conflicts from Africa to Eastern Europe.
Popular small arms tracker account @War_noir documented its use by militant groups in Mali, where DShK variants were captured during an attack on Malian Army barracks. Similarly, Russian forces have been observed using the DShK.
#Mali (#Sahel) 🇲🇱: #JNIM (part of Al-Qaeda) carried out an attack on barracks Malian Army in the town of Danderesso in Sikasso Region.
Militants captured Type 85 sniper rifle, Type 80 machine guns, DShKM / W85 heavy machine guns, Type 69 RPG Launcher with PG-7V/PG-7M anti-tank… pic.twitter.com/t8KiIjZYqC
— War Noir (@war_noir) March 17, 2024
A Russian MG within Center assault group peppering Ukrainian positions with a DShKM 12.7mm on western Ocheretino line of contact. pic.twitter.com/iG48wNSKur
— Mr Anderson (@MrThomasAderson) June 7, 2024
In addition to the man-portable configuration, Ukrainian forces have extensively retrofitted the DShK for vehicle-mounted roles. One notable example includes the use of improvised 250-round ammunition belts, fabricated by welding together standard ammunition boxes and 20-liter fuel cans to provide sustained fire capability.
Ukrainian DShKM HMG with an improvised 250-round belt, made from welding original rounds box and 20-litre can. pic.twitter.com/YjNNejrARJ
— B-AREV (@trip_to_valkiri) December 15, 2024
The DShKM-TK showcases the potential of upgrading legacy weapon systems for contemporary warfare, with its enhanced mobility and versatility offering tactical options that expand the weapon’s operational envelope.
