The BK-16 will be equipped with a stationary 12.7-mm machine gun on a gyro-stabilized module for the first time. Orders for the new version of the boat are already being placed, and its technical design is planned to be approved by the end of 2026. This was announced by Alan Lushnikov, head of JSC "Concern "Kalashnikov" and a member of the bureau of the Union of Machine Builders of Russia.
According to Lushnikov, the technical design of the BK-16M is planned to be presented for approval at the end of the year. He stated that interest in the modernized version has already moved into a practical phase – customers have started placing orders for the new boats.
The basic BK-16 is a transport and landing boat designed for operations in coastal areas, transporting personnel, and landing on unprepared shores. At the International Maritime Defense Show "Fleet-2026", the concern indicated a capacity of up to 19 marines, a maximum speed of up to 42 knots, or approximately 77 km/h, and a cruising range of at least 400 nautical miles for the boat.
Previously, the BK-16 could be equipped with machine gun armament, but the new version features a stationary gyro-stabilized module with a large-caliber 12.7-mm machine gun. This innovation will allow firing from a moving platform, which will be one of the most significant changes in the boat's design.
Read more on the topic:
- Kalashnikov presented BK-16, BK-10 boats and Khaska-10 hovercraft at "Fleet-2026"
- "Kalashnikov" reports foreign customers interested in unique BK-16 version with diving equipment