BAZ 69481M

In 1987, during the development of 4-axle vehicles 6948/69481, BAZ made the unique 5-axle prototype BAZ 69481M 10×8 with a payload of 18.6 tonnes to mount a new missile system. It has very unusual layout with 4 of 5 driven axles. The body looks similar to amphibious vehicles, but BAZ 69481M can’t swim.

In fact, the new version was identical to BAZ 69481 with an additional non-driven axle and bigger welded hull.

Increasing of weight of the vehicle led to using two more powerful 260 hp engines KamAZ 740.3, reinforced subframes and suspension units. Curb weight — 21.5 tonnes, GVW — 40.5 tonnes. Turning radius — 16.5 meters.

Top speed — 70 kph. Range — 900 km. In 1987, BAZ 69481M didn’t pass government tests due to low level of offroad capability and reliability.