DP-27 Machine Gun Returns in Russo-Ukrainian War
- Владислав Шелковенко
- Jun 9
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 4
When we think about modern war, we imagine high-tech weapons: drones, smart missiles, and advanced rifles. But in the war between Russia and Ukraine, old Soviet weapons have made a surprising return. One of them is the DP-27, a machine gun from the 1920s that was thought to be long forgotten.
The History of the DP-27
The DP-27 (Degtyaryov infantry machine gun, model 1927) was designed by Russian engineer Vasily Degtyaryov. It became a standard weapon of the Soviet army and was used a lot during World War II. The gun is famous for its round, top-mounted magazine that holds 47 bullets. After the war, it was slowly taken out of service and replaced by more modern guns. But many DP-27s were stored away or kept in private collections across former Soviet countries — including Ukraine and Russia.
Back on the Front Lines
When Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, both sides had to arm new troops quickly. This meant bringing out all available weapons — even very old ones.
Soon, videos appeared online showing Ukrainian soldiers using the DP-27 in battle. Most of the time, the gun is used from fixed positions like trenches. Even though it's old, the DP-27 is relatively reliable, easy to repair, and still uses the powerful 7.62×54mmR bullet.
Useful in Trench Warfare
The fighting on the Ukrainian battlefields often looks like trench warfare, similar to World War I. In these static battles, the DP-27 has found a second life. From a fixed position, the gun’s slow reload isn’t a big problem. Its strong bullets can go through light cover and help defend against enemy attacks. Soldiers often place it on the flanks or weaker parts of a line — areas where newer weapons might be too expensive or not available.
Some units also use the DP-27 as a backup weapon in case their main machine guns overheat or break during heavy fighting.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Compared to more modern machine guns like the PKM, or western ones, the DP-27 looks outdated. But it still has some good points:
- Simple design. It’s easy to clean and fix, even without special tools.
- Strong ammo. The 7.62×54mmR caliber it uses can still do serious damage.
- Low recoil. Because of the weight of weapon, it doesn’t kick much when shooting.
Still, there are clear problems. The magazine only holds 47 bullets and takes time to reload. The round magazines can bend or jam easily. And the gun is bulky, heavy, and not very comfortable to carry.
DP-27 Use by Russian Forces
Also, there are reports that some Russian units also used DP-27s, especially early in the war when they were short on weapons. But it’s more common to see these guns with Ukrainian forces, who often use them in local defense units or second-line positions.
Conclusion
The DP-27 is more than just an old machine gun. It’s a symbol of how war sometimes brings the past into the present. In a conflict where survival is more important than technology, a strong and simple weapon can still play a role. The DP-27, once used by grandfathers in World War II, is now back in action — in a new war, a new century, and in new hands.
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