The DShK was the first Soviet heavy-calibre machine-gun and was designed as a dedicated anti-aircraft weapon. The new weapon was designed by V.A. Degtyarev (who was already responsible for the DP-27 LMG) in 1929. First prototype of the new 12.7mm weapon was designated DK (Degtyarev, Krupnocalibernyj = Degtyarev, Large calibre) and went into trials in 1930. It proved successful and was officially adopted. The DK was produced in small numbers from 1933 to 1935.