Kalashnikov Concern plans to develop an unmanned surface vessel based on the BK-10 high-speed assault boat, according to company head Alan Lushnikov.

He said specialists are already working on a new version of the platform. The BK-10 is an assault landing craft with good seaworthiness and relatively low cost. It can be fitted with two machine guns, while the weapons configuration can be adjusted to meet customer requirements.

Lushnikov said the company is moving in this direction because unmanned boats have become an essential part of modern naval warfare.

The Project 02450 boat is designed to carry up to ten troops and land them on an unprepared coast. The BK-10 can also be used for anti-piracy and counter-terrorism missions.

Its maximum speed is at least 40 knots, while its cruising range reaches 400 miles. The assault boat can carry up to four machine guns with calibres ranging from 7.62 mm to 12.7 mm.

The platform can also be used for evacuation, delivery of small cargoes and fire support with machine-gun and grenade-launcher weapons. The BK-10 is suitable for both combat and humanitarian operations.