Kalashnikov, whose AK-47 assault rifle has armed Russian forces for 70 years and been the preferred weapon of insurgents across continents, has opened a store at Moscow's Sheremetyevo airport selling souvenirs including plastic model guns, the company said. (Reuters)
Over the past two years a new generation of machine gun wielding “lone wolf” jihadis have sparked terror across Europe’s airports and train stations.
But AK-47 manufacturers have ignored this and decided to open a store in Moscow airport selling life-size imitation machine guns to passengers.
The opening comes as airport security gets stricter after ISIS terrorists used AK-47s and bombs during the November Paris attacks and Brussels bombings.
A salesperson demonstrates a model AK-47 assault rifle at the newly opened Gunmaker Kalashnikov souvenir store in Moscow's Sheremetyevo airport. (Reuters)
The iconic weapon – famed for its durability and reliability during the usually harsh war environment – has armed Russian forces for 70 years.
The store opened at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo airport, Russia’s largest flight hub, which saw more than 30 million people pass through it last year.
An airport official said the shop, offering novelties including pens, umbrellas, bags, hats, camouflage gear and “I love AK” T-shirts, would be situated in the rail-link section of the airport complex.
The model guns – automatic pistols and rifles – are clearlyimitations and would pose no security problems, he added.
The AK-47, the first rifle the firm produced, was introduced in 1948. It armed the Soviet Union and eastern Europe during the communist era and served largely pro-Soviet rebel forces across Africa and Asia.
Vladimir Dmitriev, head of the company’s marketing, said: “Kalashnikov is one of the most popular brands that come to mind for most people in the world when they hear about Russia. So, we are pleased to provide the opportunity for everyone to take away from Russia a souvenir with our company brand.”
Many, however, noted the absurdity in selling imitation firearms in an airport. Reactions on Twitter varied between outrage and disbelief.
Selling assault rifles at an airport. What could possibly go wrong?
— Ariana Gic (@GicAriana) August 23, 2016
Kalashnikov store opens at #Moscow airport.https://t.co/FMpI3spCpr
One person wrote, "Thank god for that! Kalashnikov have opened a shop at Moscow Airport. Because that's what the world needs right now."
Another said, "There is now a Kalashnikov booth at the Moscow airport from where you can buy gun replicas. Peak Russia ight there."
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