The Ministry of Defense leadership plans to choose between PPK-20 (Kalashnikov submachine gun) and Tula PP-2000 (AO Shipunov Instrument Design Bureau) for the pilots of the Russian Space Forces by the summer of 2024, RIA Novosti reports, citing a knowledgeable source.

According to the agency's interlocutor, the defense department will complete all necessary procedures, carry out comparative tests and choose between PPK-20 and PP-2000. He reminded that the development of the "Kalashnikov" passed tests 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 portable emergency stock (NAZ), which is located in the pilot's ejection seat. In addition to the weapon, it includes a first aid kit, food, a knife, and communication means.

NAZ is necessary for the pilot to survive in case of ejection in an uninhabited area. Before this, only pistols and grenades were included in the emergency stock, and automatic machines were not included in the equipment.

As Rostec reports, the PP-2000 has been used by special forces personnel since 2006. Experts call the Tula submachine gun one of the best in its class.

The new version of the PPK-20 was presented by Kalashnikov in 2021. Unlike previous generation submachine guns, its stock folds to the right and is adjustable. PPK-20 has small dimensions and is convenient in operation.