The KPV heavy machine gun is a Soviet heavy machinegun in 14.5×114mm calibre that was first used as an infantry anti-tank rifle in 1949. It has a high rate of fire and can penetrate light armour and cover. It was later adapted for anti-aircraft use, mounted as the ZPU series of anti-aircraft weapons. This gun is also the main armament of the BTR-60 and BTR-80 armored personnel carriers. The KPV has a short recoil operation system with gas assistance and a rotary bolt. It is air-cooled and has a chrome-plated barrel. The KPV is one of the most powerful machine guns ever used by the Soviet Armed Forces.
