The LuAZ-967 was the Transporter of the Front Line, a small Soviet four-wheel drive amphibious vehicle. Light enough to be air transportable, it had a 400 kg (880 lb) payload over most terrain The LuAZ-967 is a specialized battlefield support vehicle. It was developed in the late 1950s and early 1960s in the Soviet Union. It is similar to the Haflinger and might be copied from it. After the Korean War the Soviets saw a need for a small off-road vehicle. The GAZ-69, that was then in service was to large and heavy. A prototype was completed in 1958. It was first seen during trials in the late 1960s. This vehicle was produced by Lutsk automobile plant, located in Ukraine. Production ceased in 1991. Over 20 000 of these vehicles were produced. Its current status is uncertain. It might be in service with some former Soviet republics. Russian armed forces keep these vehicles in storage. Its main role is medical evacuation from the battlefield. However this vehicle can also carry supplies, such as ammunition. It can deliver ammunition straight to the trenches. It can be also used as light support vehicle and weapon carrier. In the weapon carrier role it was fitted with 30-mm automatic grenade launcher, Fagot anti-tank guided missile launcher, or 82-mm recoilless rifle. The LuAZ-967 was used by airborne troops and possibly other forces. Body of this vehicle is made of all-welded steel. The windscreen can be folded forward to reduce the overall height. Once the windscreen is folded height of the vehicle is less than 1 m. The LuAZ-967 can carry driver, two seated troops on folding seats and two stretchers. However it is normal load is two wounded troops plus the driver. The driver sits immediately behind the windscreen. His seat is located in the center of the vehicle. The drivers seat can be folded down, so the driver can drive while laying flat. The steering wheel and steering column can be also lowered accordingly. In the battlefield support role the vehicle can carry up to 320 kg of supplies. Maximum payload capacity is 420 kg. The improved LuAZ-967A and LuAZ-967M with more powerful engine can also tow light trailers or artillery pieces, with a maximum weight of 300 kg. This vehicle has an open top. However it can be fitted with a frame and canvas cover. The LuAZ-967 is fitted with drop sides, that are also used as treadway for self-recovery and crossing trenches. These can be also used to carry stretchers. The LuAZ-967 was powered by a MeMZ-965 petrol engine, developing 27 hp. Engine is located at the front. The same engine, as well as a number of automotive components, were used from a ZAZ-965 civilian car. The LuAZ-967 has a front wheel drive, with optional drive to the rear wheels. Vehicle is fitted with a front-mounted 200 kg capacity winch with 100 m of cable. It is used to winch the wounded soldier on a canvas mat. Alternatively it can be used for self-recovery. Vehicle has a watertight body and is fully amphibious. On water it is propelled by its wheels. Amphibious speed on water is 3 km/h. Due to its compact dimensions it can be easily carried inside aircraft and larger helicopters.
Âíåäîðîæíûå òðàñïîðòíûå ñðåäñòâà (Land Locomotion – Mechanical Vehicle Mobility LL-MVM) Home