KMZ, the Kingisepp Machine-Building Plant, has begun pilot production of its Bottlenose and Kasatka-2M vessels using Russian-made engines and thrusters, with operations anticipated in 2024. This development was reported by RIA News and marks a significant shift from earlier configurations that relied on imported power plants.
The newly introduced thrusters are tailored for planing boats, including the Afalina and Kasatka-2M models, as well as compact light watercraft measuring approximately 5 to 5.5 meters in length. The design emphasizes compact, efficient propulsion suitable for smaller, active craft that require responsive handling and reliable thrust in a variety of conditions.
Work on the new power plants began about a year ago, and the first prototypes have already shown promise. Small boats have entered mass production, signaling a transition toward domestically produced propulsion systems across KMZ’s lineup. The shift aims to consolidate the supply chain, reduce dependence on foreign components, and foster domestic technological advancement in marine propulsion.
Starting in 2024, all KMZ boats will be equipped with Russian water-jet propulsion. There are also plans to manufacture drive units alongside the diesel engines currently showcased on the stand. As a result, Bottlenose and other KMZ vessels will operate with a wholly Russian propulsion system, integrating engines and propulsion units produced within the country. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to enhance self-reliance in indigenous maritime manufacturing and to ensure steady performance across various operational scenarios.
Recent developments indicate that Russian naval and commercial vessels have been advancing their propulsion independence, illustrating a broader push toward localized marine technology and domestic production capabilities. The continuing evolution of KMZ’s propulsion strategy reflects a commitment to improving reliability, ease of maintenance, and long-term sustainability for a range of craft and missions. This transition also underscores the importance of government-industry collaboration in expanding the domestic maritime technology sector, supporting regional manufacturing ecosystems, and ensuring competitive, home-built solutions for future operations. The full impact of these changes will unfold as production scales and field testing progresses, with ongoing assessments informing further refinements to engine and propulsion integration. The overall trajectory points toward a more self-sufficient approach to marine propulsion for a family of vessels that includes Bottlenose, Kasatka-2M, Afalina, and other compact boats. The outcomes will be monitored and reported by industry observers and independent analysts, with attribution to RIA News as the source of the primary updates and context.