It is a general-purpose machine gun, developed during the 1990s as a modernized version of the PKM to improve its capabilities in the LMG/SAW role.

Kovrov produced small batches of the AEK-999 for the Ministry of Internal Affairs to equip special forces units of the Internal Troops of Russia, but all military production ceased in 2006.

The most important change is a new barrel, made of the same steel used in aviation machine guns for greater durability.

This new barrel is partially fluted to save weight and improve heat dissipation, and is provided with a mirage top cover and more effective muzzle brake.

It can also accept all standard PKM accessories, including tripod mount, and 100-round clip-on belt boxes.