BK-16 and BK-10 Boats Enhance Russia’s Black Sea Defense Against Unmanned Threats
According to information published by Russian sources on August 23, 2024, the Project 02510 (BK-16) high-speed assault boat and BK-10 are emerging as some of the most effective tools in combating unmanned surface vessels and sabotage groups in the Black Sea. This assertion was made by Semyon Danilin, CEO of SMSZ “Rybinsk Shipyard”.
Danilin emphasized that the BK-16 and BK-10 boats currently represent the most efficient means for countering both unmanned sea drones and Ukrainian landing craft and boats attempting to approach and land on coastal defenses. According to him, the high speed and powerful armament of these vessels enable them to chase down and neutralize enemy targets both day and night, thanks to their thermal imaging capabilities.
The Project 02510 BK-16 craft are specifically designed for operations in coastal marine areas, straits, river mouths, and lakes. They are equipped to transport personnel, land troops on unprepared shores, and provide fire support during landings. These boats boast high speed, a large troop compartment with ample seating, and the ability to approach the shore directly for rapid disembarkation.
The BK-16 can be equipped with various types of weaponry. In its transport-landing configuration, it carries four 7.62 mm machine guns combined with a combat module, two 12.7 mm machine guns, or a 40 mm grenade launcher. The boat reaches a maximum speed of 42 knots, with an economical cruising speed of 30 knots. It has a crew of two and can carry up to 19 personnel. Its operational endurance is one day, with a range of up to 400 nautical miles.
The BK-10 high-speed assault boat is designed for transporting personnel and is capable of landing troops on both prepared and unprepared shores, providing necessary fire support to troops during disembarkation.
The boat’s crew consists of two, plus a capacity for 10 additional personnel. It can be armed with two 7.62 mm machine guns or one automatic grenade launcher. The BK-10 has a maximum speed of 40 knots and a range of 400 miles at a cruising speed of 22 knots.