In the Ranks

n 3 July 2014, MZKT curtain-sided vehicles for transporting people and wheeled chassis for mounting weapons took part in the Independence Day military parade as part of the column of vehicles produced by defence companies.

The MZKT-500200 two-axle all-wheel drive truck headed the column. The upgraded in 2014 vehicle has payload capacity of 3 tonnes.

The brand new vehicle was developed on demand of the the State Border Committee in two years. The system will replace the outdated GAZ-66 and GAZ-3308 Sadko. This year, the first batch of 25 vehicles will reach the customer.

The new generation MZKT-600100 three-axle full-wheel drive vehicle was in the column as well. Design engineers of the plant significantly upgraded the system. Unique cross-country ability was achieved by mounting a long-stroke all-wheel independent suspension. They even guarantee effective operation of vibration-sensitive equipment.

The MZKT-6001 many times received favourable reports from Russian experts, demonstrating excellent ride performance and reliability at Russia Arms Expo 2013 in Nizhny Tagil and at the proving ground in Bronnitsy (Moscow region) in May 2014, where all new military vehicles are tested. The site belongs to Scientific and Research Institute of Motor Transport of Russian Defence Ministry.

The column included the MZKT-543A – the oldest MZKT system that can be registered in Guinness Book of Records. Produced from 1965, the chassis is still in demand. Gradually, this old system will be replaced by the next-generation MZKT-7930, which has greater payload capacity, speed and versatility of use.About 40 types of military systems are based on this chassis.

The next in the column were five-axle MZKT-79292 and six-axle MZKT-79291 chassis that can transport or be equipped with various weapon systems. The MZKT-79291 is equipped with the new generation hydromechanical gearbox, developed and produced by MZKT.

The Topol-M (NATO classification: SS-27 Sickle B) is based on this eight-wheeled forty-tonne vehicle. At present, the MZKT-79291 is second-to-none in the word. Sixteen driving wheels, six steering axles and 800 hp inspire great respect. The system makes a U-turn at the area with a 34-metre diameter. The on-board system controls 20 parameters: engine, driving gear condition etc.

From 1998, MZKT special wheeled chassis traditionally take part in the Belarus Independence Day parades.

Minsk Wheel Tractor Plant is a leading company in the production of all-terrain and high load capacity trucks among CIS countries. The vehicles are known under VOLAT trademark, distinctive for good off- road capability, mobility and reliability.