Ukrainian army destroys first Chinese-supplied Desertcross all-terrain vehicles.

On December 3, 2023, images shared on Russian social media revealed the first confirmed destruction of Desertcross 1000-3 all-terrain vehicles, supplied by China to Russia. According to reports, these vehicles were destroyed in the Oleshki forest, Kherson region, likely by rocket launchers.
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Desertcross 1000-3 all-terrain vehicles supplied by China to Russia (Picture source: Russian Social Media)

These vehicles are part of a significant batch delivered by China to Russia. The Russian Armed Forces currently possess 537 units of the Desertcross in their basic configuration, and an additional 1,590 units are slated for delivery. By December 2023, 500 new units are expected to be delivered, followed by another 1,090 units in the first quarter of 2024. These UTVs, manufactured by the Chinese company Odes Industries, are set to become a notable component of the Russian Army's fleet. Their adaptation to Russian conditions involves key modifications, including the installation of heaters, a modified cabin for increased comfort, and reinforced bumpers for enhanced durability in diverse terrains.

The Desertcross 1000-3 is an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) designed for military applications such as patrol, reconnaissance, search and rescue missions, and transporting material in challenging terrains. Compared to the Russian AM-1 ATV, the Desertcross 1000-3 offers an increased load capacity of over 50%, facilitating efficient transport of equipment and supplies. It is equipped to transport wounded or 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 can accommodate three infantrymen. The vehicle 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 is equipped with 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.

Desertcross 1000-3 all-terrain vehicles supplied by China to Russia (Picture source: Zvezdanews)