Vz.59
| Fire rate | 700 - 800 rounds/min. |
| Caliber | 7.62 x 54 mm |
| Magazine | belt of 100, 200 et 250 rounds |
| Length | 1215 mm (47.8 in) |
| Weight | 9.28 kg (20.5 lb) |
| Range | 2000 m (6562 ft) |
Description
The Universal Machine Gun Model 1959 (Czech: Univerzální kulomet vzor 59) is a general-purpose machine gun developed in Czechoslovakia during the 1950s.
The Uk vz. 59 is chambered for 7.62×54mmR ammunition and is belt-fed. Its design allows it to function in multiple configurations. With a light barrel and bipod, it serves as a light machine gun (vz. 59L model), while a heavy barrel and tripod setup configures it as a medium machine gun. It can also be adapted for co-axial mounting (Vz. 59T version). A distinguishing feature of the feed system is the lever-type mechanism, first seen in the MG 39 Rh, which is operated by a lever positioned externally on the right side of the receiver. The pistol grip serves as the charging handle.
Specific variants include:
- The vz. 59L configuration with a light barrel and bipod.
- The vz. 59T version for co-axial mounting.
A variant designated Vz. 59N is produced to chamber 7.62×51mm NATO ammunition. The base Vz. 59 typically utilizes the 7.62×54mmR cartridge and can be configured with different barrel weights for varying roles.
The Uk vz. 59 saw operational deployment, including use by the PAVN and Viet Cong forces during the Vietnam War. It remains in active service with the Czech Army and the Slovak Armed Forces.
Operators of the Vz. 59 include Afghanistan, Biafra, the Czechia, the Democratic Republic of Congo (specifically its Armed Forces), the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda, Georgia, Libya, Mali, Slovakia, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Ukraine (receiving 3,200 units from the Czechia as military aid), and Vietnam.