Route Established: Russia Launches Civilian Uncrewed Surface Vessels
Russia is taking a decisive step in civilian drone technology, bringing uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) from military application to the service of emergency response, environmental monitoring, and transport safety.
From Military Roots to Civilian Innovation
The Kingisepp Machine-Building Plant (KMZ), a Russian industrial defense holding, has opened a unified production hub dedicated to manufacturing maritime drones for civilian use. With decades of experience in shipbuilding and marine systems, KMZ is now moving into full-cycle production of USVs — from design and hull fabrication to the integration of onboard systems. All prototypes are tested in an indoor basin on-site.
This transition began with an order in early 2023 from the Ministry of Emergency Situations (EMERCOM) for 199 multi-purpose uncrewed boats. The first units are already in service. These drones are equipped with remote control, video surveillance, and water quality sensors, enabling them to operate in flooded areas, river crossings, and hard-to-reach zones. Crucially, they can detect surface and subsurface objects, proving invaluable for search and rescue operations.
The Federal Transport Oversight Agency (Rostransnadzor) is also evaluating KMZ's drones for national transportation security. The potential deployment of USVs on key waterways would provide continuous monitoring without risking human lives. KMZ is planning to produce dozens of such vessels annually for civilian purposes.
From Russian Rivers to International Waters
The domestic market for USVs is a priority. KMZ envisions a state-wide monitoring system that integrates uncrewed boats with federal services such as Roshydromet (Russia’s weather service), the State Inspection for Small Vessels (GIMS), and the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Mass production could begin within the next few years.
Equally promising is the international demand. Thanks to the platform’s versatility, Russian USVs are well-suited for countries with developed riverine and coastal infrastructure — such as India, Indonesia, and several Latin American nations. These drones offer turnkey solutions for environmental monitoring, navigation, and patrol operations.
Accelerating Toward Autonomous Navigation
In late 2023, KMZ introduced its first military-grade maritime drone, the *Vizir*. By summer 2024, the upgraded *Vizir-2M* was revealed, featuring a specialized platform capable of operating in rough waters and accessing hard-to-reach regions. This model has already attracted interest from major energy firms like Rosneft and Gazprom.
KMZ’s portfolio also includes AI-enabled vessels — boats equipped with ‘brains’ to carry out autonomous missions. The company is actively building a new market niche: smart, civilian USVs.
Partnerships with EMERCOM and Rostransnadzor exemplify how public-private collaboration is propelling digitalization in infrastructure. In the next 2–3 years, expect an increase in USV deployments for government services, integration of artificial intelligence, and the first steps into international markets.
Ultimately, KMZ’s project represents more than a technological milestone. It reinforces Russia’s digital sovereignty and contributes to the safer, more efficient stewardship of water resources.
