The DSB-LK project was proposed by the Leningrad Red Banner Air Force Engineering Institute in 1957. At that time, the General Staff of the Soviet Air Force put forward the idea of developing a supersonic long-range seaplane. In response, the Engineering Institute proposed three plans: a strategic bomber, a seaplane, and an amphibious aircraft. The DSB-LK was the strategic bomber variant, whose design was finalized after a series of aerodynamic configuration studies. The design work was highly forward-looking. The bomber was expected to have a maximum speed of Mach 2 to 4, a flight altitude of 20,000 meters, and a payload capacity of 5 to 15 tons. Additionally, considerations were given to the bomber’s potential to carry air-launched ballistic missiles and cruise missiles in the future, as well as the development of a strategic reconnaissance aircraft variant.