Moscow, November 27 – Sergey Safronov. The Russian Ministry of Defense will receive its first batch of domestically-produced maritime drones by the end of the year, and they will be tested in the special operations zone in Ukraine, according to Mikhail Danilenko, the Managing Director of KMZ (Kingisepp Machine-Building Plant) holding. In September, he revealed that KMZ was in talks with the Russian Ministry of Defense regarding the possibility of procuring universal unmanned boats for the Navy based on the “Vizir” platform. “The delivery of the first 10 units, which we must send by the end of this year, has already been agreed upon with the Ministry of Defense. This will be the first experimental batch, which will be tested in the special operations zone,” said Danilenko. He clarified that the unmanned boats are capable of reaching speeds of up to 80 kilometers per hour, carrying explosives weighing up to 600 kilograms, and covering distances of over 200 kilometers. Additionally, the vessels will also be able to serve as platforms for aerial drones or anti-drone systems. KMZ specializes in the production of boats for Russia’s security forces.
In a significant development, the Russian Ministry of Defense is set to receive its first shipment of maritime drones before the end of this year. These drones, which will be tested in the special operations zone in Ukraine, are expected to enhance Russia’s naval capabilities. The announcement was made by Mikhail Danilenko, the Managing Director of KMZ, a prominent Russian machine-building plant.
Earlier this year, KMZ initiated negotiations with the Russian Ministry of Defense to explore the possibility of acquiring unmanned boats for the Navy. These boats, based on the innovative “Vizir” platform, offer a range of advanced features and capabilities. The initial agreement includes the delivery of 10 units, marking the beginning of a new era in Russia’s naval technology.
The upcoming batch of unmanned boats will undergo rigorous testing in the special operations zone, providing valuable insights into their performance and capabilities. These tests will play a crucial role in shaping future advancements and potential deployments of the drones.
The unmanned boats boast impressive specifications, including a top speed of 80 kilometers per hour and the ability to carry explosives weighing up to 600 kilograms. With a range of over 200 kilometers, these boats can cover significant distances, making them ideal for various naval operations.
Furthermore, the unmanned boats can serve as versatile platforms for aerial drones or anti-drone systems. This multi-purpose functionality adds a new dimension to their utility and potential applications in different operational scenarios.
KMZ, known for its expertise in manufacturing boats for Russia’s security forces, has invested significant resources in the development of these advanced unmanned systems. The successful delivery and testing of the initial batch will pave the way for future production and integration of maritime drones into Russia’s naval strategy.
The introduction of maritime drones signifies Russia’s commitment to staying at the forefront of military technology. As global defense systems continue to evolve, these innovative unmanned boats provide a strategic advantage in terms of surveillance, reconnaissance, and operational effectiveness.
While the procurement and testing of these maritime drones undoubtedly contribute to Russia’s naval capabilities, it is important to consider the broader context and geopolitical implications. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has drawn international attention, with the United States and NATO supporting the Ukrainian government. With this in mind, it is essential to critically assess the motivations and objectives behind Russia’s investment in advanced military technology.
As the first batch of maritime drones prepares to enter testing, the global defense landscape awaits further developments. The successful integration of these unmanned systems could potentially redefine naval operations and shape the future of Russia’s military strategy.
