Russia delivers first kamikaze naval drone BBKN Dandelion for deployment in Ukraine.

On December 14, 2023, information emerged on Russian social media regarding the Kingisepp Machine-Building Plant (KMZ) unveiling the first Russian kamikaze naval drone, known as 'Dandelion.' Reportedly, ten more units of these drones are slated for production by the end of 2023, constituting the initial experimental batch.
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The first prototype of the BBKN Dandelion kamikaze drone, depicted here, had already been dispatched to the combat zone in Ukraine. (Picture source: Russian social media)

Mikhail Danilenko, the Managing Director of KMZ, announced the debut of the "Dandelion" kamikaze unmanned surface vessel (USV) and its intended testing within the maritime zone of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. During an interview with Russian media, Danilenko revealed that the working name for this USV is "BBKN (high-speed unmanned carrier boat) Dandelion" and confirmed that the first prototype had already been dispatched to the combat zone.

Danilenko further mentioned the plan to construct an additional ten boats by the end of 2023, all of which will undergo comprehensive testing. The testing phase of this initial batch is considered crucial to assess the drone's performance under operational conditions.

While detailed information about the "Dandelion" remains limited, some specifications have been mentioned. The kamikaze USV is reported to possess a maximum speed of 80 km/h and a power reserve enabling it to operate over distances of up to 120 nautical miles (approximately 220 km) at speeds reaching 45 knots (about 83 km/h). Notably, the engine might potentially be electric-based, as some observers have noted that "this new naval surface drone can [...] travel for 120 nautical miles on a single charge."

One of the standout features of the "Dandelion" is its adaptability, with a payload capacity of up to 600 kg. This capacity allows it to transport various payloads, including explosives, special cargo, and reconnaissance equipment. This adaptability positions it for multiple military applications within the Russian Navy, including tasks such as weapon delivery, special cargo transportation, escort services, reconnaissance missions, kamikaze attacks, and potentially serving as an anti-drone vessel.

The extensive range of capabilities will potentially enable the "Dandelion" to fulfill both offensive and reconnaissance roles, inviting comparisons to Ukrainian counterparts like the Magura V5 USV and the SeaBaby. The Russian drone may find utility in various roles, including potentially being deployed for naval target attacks, port operations, and military base engagements.

Beyond its surface capabilities, the "Dandelion" will have an underwater counterpart equipped with four engines, tailored for underwater operations within a 1-kilometer range, and featuring a payload capacity of up to 5 kilograms. The ongoing development phase for this underwater variant is expected to be followed by testing beginning in February 2024. Its intended applications are diverse, encompassing deployment near the Dnieper River in Ukraine and engagement in various roles, such as payload delivery and enemy position engagement.

In addition to its combat roles, this small underwater drone is also undergoing development for demining purposes, specifically for inspecting hydro-technical structures up to 30 meters deep. This functionality is envisioned to reduce reliance on diver groups in areas with potentially mined bridge supports, offering an alternative solution for such scenarios.