The Ministry of Defense plans to choose between the PPK-20 (Kalashnikov submachine gun) and the Tula PP-2000 (JSC "Instrument Design Bureau named after Shipunov") for the Russian Aerospace Forces pilots by the summer of 2024, RIA "Novosti" writes, citing an informed source.
According to the agency's source, the defense department will complete all the necessary procedures, conduct comparative tests and make a choice between the PPK-20 and PP-2000. He recalled that the "Kalashnikov" development was tested back in 2020, and the PP-2000 is planned to be tested in the first quarter of next year.
It is expected that the new weapon will replenish the wearable emergency stock (NAZ), which is located in the pilot's ejection seat. In addition to weapons, it includes a first-aid kit, food, a knife, and communications equipment.
NAZ is necessary for the pilot to survive in case of ejection in a deserted area. Prior to this, only pistols and grenades were included in the emergency supply, and assault rifles were not included in the equipment.
According to Rostec, the PP-2000 has been used by special forces of law enforcement agencies since 2006. Experts call the Tula submachine gun one of the best in its class.
A new version of the PPK-20 was presented by "Kalashnikov" in 2021. Unlike the submachine guns of previous generations, its buttstock folds to the right and is adjustable. The PPK-20 is small in size and easy to use.
