By Resolution of the Council of Ministers No. 564-275 dated May 26, 1958, work on the K-12 anti-ship cruise missile was transferred to OKB-49 G.M. Beriev. To expand the combat capabilities of its flying boat, the OKB prepared a project for a missile armament carrier, designated Be-10N. The entire system, including the aircraft, was called K-12B.
The aircraft was intended to be equipped with K-12BS anti-ship cruise missiles, featuring nuclear or conventional warheads, and the “Shpil” K-12U radar control system. These systems were developed in accordance with USSR Council of Ministers Resolution No. 854-404 dated July 31, 1958, and the Air Force Tactical and Technical Requirements, approved on September 9, 1958.
Capabilities and Armament
In addition to engaging large surface targets, this weapon also allowed strikes on naval bases. The normal take-off weight of the carrier with one missile was planned to reach 48500 kg, and its operational radius was 1400-1450 km. The maximum missile launch range was 90-110 km (from an altitude of 10000 m).
The carrier aircraft differed from the standard Be-10 due to a redesigned bow section of the hull up to frame No. 18, which housed the “Shpil” station antenna. The cargo bay was also modified, with the upper and lower hatches removed.
Design and Operational Features
The Be-10N was also equipped with the latest flight and navigation equipment. Bombing armament, photographic equipment, and forward cannon installations were dismantled. The electrical equipment was completely replaced, as the number of power consumers doubled.
The Be-10N could carry one or two missiles on pylons under the wing. Provisions were made for their suspension both when the seaplane was on its transfer chassis and while afloat. The preliminary design of the K-12B system was presented to the scientific and technical council of the GKAT under the USSR Council of Ministers on June 10, 1959. It was approved, but the project never reached production.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | Be-10N |
| Wingspan, m | 28.60 |
| Aircraft length, m | 31.45 |
| Aircraft height, m | 11.03 |
| Wing area, m2 | 130.00 |
| Empty weight | 24200 |
| Maximum takeoff weight | 48500 |
| Engine type | 2 Lyulka AL-7PB Turbojets |
| Thrust, kgf | 2 x 7500 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 875 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 790 |
| Range without refueling | 1450 |
| Range with one refueling | 2050 |
| Service ceiling, m | 11600 |
| Crew | 3 |
| Armament | four 23-mm NS-23 cannons and 1-2 K-12BS |
Image and diagram gallery of the Be-10N
 Be-10N |
 Be-10N |
 Be-10N |