Russia deploys Chinese off‑roaders near Ukrainian border
The Atesh partisan group has reported spotting Chinese Desertcross 1000-3 off-road vehicles en route to Kursk, according to the Defense Express portal.
1:12 PM EST, December 12, 2024
The group observed a transport of these small Chinese off-road vehicles, heading towards Kursk. The convoy, consisting of military transporters carrying the vehicles, was seen on the M-4 highway between Rostov-on-Don and Voronezh.
This movement to Kursk might indicate preparations for raids and sabotage missions near the Ukrainian border. Analysts at Defense Express suggest it may also be part of a broader strategy to use these mobile and lightweight platforms in frontline operations.
Russians moving small Desertcross vehicles
The Desertcross 1000-3 is a versatile vehicle often used for patrols, reconnaissance, raids, supply transport, and evacuation of the wounded. The Russian Ministry of Defense has already incorporated 537 of these units into its arsenal, with plans to purchase nearly 1,600 more by the end of 2024.
The Desertcross 1000-3 is a lightweight vehicle mounted on a two-axle chassis with all-wheel drive. It's powered by a gasoline engine that produces 87 horsepower, allowing the vehicle to reach speeds of up to 50 mph. A fully fueled Desertcross can travel up to 155 miles.
The vehicle features an open construction, lacking protective shielding for the crew against gunfire. Its total length is less than 11 feet, with a maximum width of 6 feet and a height of 6.2 feet. It offers a ground clearance of 12 inches. The vehicle is lightweight, weighing only 2,315 pounds, and has a load capacity of 1,213 pounds.
