China delivers more than 2,100 Desertcross 1000-3 ATVs to Russia.

According to TASS on November 10, 2023, Russian President Vladimir Putin inspected the newly acquired Chinese Desertcross 1000-3 all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) during his visit to the Russian Armed Forces in Rostov-on-Don. Information provided during the visit indicates that the Russian Armed Forces currently possess 537 units of the UTV in its basic configuration, and an additional 1,590 units are slated for delivery.
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Russian armed forces purchased more than 2,100 Chinese Desertcross 1000-3 All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) in the 2022 variant.  (Picture source: Yandex)

500 new units are expected to be delivered in December 2023, followed by an additional 1,090 units in the first quarter of 2024. The Desertcross 1000-3 UTVs, manufactured by the Chinese company Odes Industries, are set to become a notable component of the Russian Army's fleet. The adaptation of these UTVs for Russian conditions involves key modifications, including the installation of heaters, a modified cabin for enhanced comfort, and reinforced bumpers for increased durability in diverse terrains.

Television coverage showcased several 2022 Desertcross 1000-3 UTVs on display in the headquarters' courtyard. Shoigu emphasized the demand for this vehicle during his briefing to President Putin. The financial aspect of the acquisition was also detailed, revealing that the basic configuration of the Desertcross 1000-3 UTVs is priced at 1.58 million rubles ($17,141.31). For units with additional features, the cost rises to 2.1 million rubles ($22,782.75), according to the State Defense Order.

The Desertcross 1000-3 UTV is an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) manufactured by the Chinese company Odes Industries, designed for military applications such as patrol, reconnaissance, and search and rescue missions, as well as the transportation of materiel in challenging terrains.

Compared to the Russian AM-1 ATV, the Desertcross 1000-3 features an increased load capacity of over 50%, enabling efficient transport of equipment and supplies. It is equipped to transport wounded and sick individuals and includes tie-down straps on the front and rear cargo platforms for securing property.

In its 2022 model, the Desertcross 1000-3 has a load capacity of 550 kg, a total weight of 1600 kg, and accommodation for three infantrymen. The UTV is powered by a gasoline 4-stroke, twin-cylinder engine, which includes electronic fuel injection (EFI), electronic control ignition, and liquid cooling. With a displacement of 1,000 cc and a compression ratio of 10.3:1, this engine generates between 85 and 87 hp, depending on the source.

The Chinese Desertcross 1000-3 also features a variable-speed drive transmission, a drive system supporting on-demand 2WD/4WD, front and rear locking differentials, electronic power steering, a 4,500lb (2,041 kg) winch, a 12.7-gallon (48 liters) fuel tank capacity, and a 12v battery. Additional features include a front bumper with an amplifier and rubber bumpers for added protection and an interior heater for operator comfort in various environmental conditions.

Completing the package, the Desertcross 1000-3 features front 27x9x14 and rear 27x11x14 off-road tires, coupled with independent double wishbone suspension. The brake system is hydraulic disc-based, both at the front and rear. The UTV has a maximum speed of 80 km/h, the ability to ford through water up to 0.4 m deep, an estimated range of 250 km, and a 2,000lb (907 kg) towing capacity. In terms of dimensions, the UTV measures 3.34 m in length, 1.78 m in width, and 1.96 m in height, with a ground clearance of 0.32 m.

Russian Armed Forces currently possess 537 units of the Desertcross 1000-3 UTV in its basic configuration. (Picture source: Russian social media)