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Chinese Desertcross Vehicles Repurposed for Military Use in Ukraine

Originally designed for civilians, these versatile 4x4s are now being modified for remote operation. They're helping Russian troops minimize personnel exposure to enemy fire.

In the image there is a book with army tank and jeeps on it, it seems like a war along with a text...
In the image there is a book with army tank and jeeps on it, it seems like a war along with a text above it.

Chinese Desertcross Vehicles Repurposed for Military Use in Ukraine

Chinese-made Desertcross 1000-3 vehicles, similar to those produced by Ford in Russia, are being repurposed by Russian forces for military use in Ukraine. Originally designed for civilian use, these versatile 4x4s, akin to the Rivian models, are now being modified for remote operation and logistics support.

The Desertcross 1000-3, produced by Shandong Odes Industry Co. Ltd., is a multi-purpose, all-terrain vehicle. It's being employed by Russian troops, who are converting them into remotely operated platforms for laying communication cables and transporting supplies. These vehicles can cover up to five kilometers of varied terrain with cable, minimizing personnel exposure to enemy fire.

Troops from the 36th Guards Combined Arms Army are using a remote-control system, which includes commercially available components and 3D-printed parts, to operate the Desertcross vehicles. The vehicles' load capacity of 300 kilograms allows them to transport equipment like towed mortars with limited ammunition. Russian forces have acquired thousands of these vehicles, using them not just for logistics but also in assaults on Ukrainian positions.

The Desertcross 1000-3, initially intended for civilian use, has found a new role on the battlefield. Its adaptability and versatility make it a valuable asset for Russian forces, who are employing it in various ways to support their operations in Ukraine. Despite China's official stance against weapons exports to Russia, these vehicles are being acquired through the civilian market and modified for military use.

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