China has declared that it will not supply weapons to either side of the conflict in Ukraine. However, Russian soldiers are seen driving around the front lines in hundreds of Chinese-made vehicles. The Russian army has suffered significant losses in the war in Ukraine and constantly needs to replenish its equipment. Sometimes, the domestic industry in Russia cannot produce enough or certain systems are not up to the required quality standards, which can make a difference on the battlefield. As a result, Russia looks to other countries for military equipment, and China, with its massive manufacturing capabilities, has become a key supplier.
Despite China’s claims that it will not supply military material to either side, it is evident that they are providing Desertcross-1000-3 vehicles to the Russian army. These vehicles have been spotted in the Zaporizhzhia region by Ukrainian soldiers. Currently, Russia is said to have around 530 of these vehicles, with another 1,600 on order from China, and approximately 500 more expected to arrive by the end of 2023. While China presents these vehicles as non-military, they are clearly being used by the army. The vehicles are suitable for civilian use as well, such as in agriculture or forestry, making them versatile in rugged terrain. China seems unconcerned about how it is perceived by Western countries regarding its military exports.
Limited information is available about the Chinese Desertcross-1000-3 vehicle, but from images and some data, it appears to be a terrain quad bike with storage space at the back. The Russian army has never had similar vehicles in its arsenal, with the closest comparison being the old Soviet UAZ-469. The Chinese Desertcross-1000-3 is suitable for transporting troops and cargo in challenging terrain, although it lacks armor. Its price is around 500,000 Czech koruna.
The Desertcross-1000-3 measures 3.34 meters in length and 1.78 meters in width, with a total weight of 1,600 kilograms. It can carry up to 550 kilograms, although some sources suggest a lower payload capacity. Manufactured by Odes Industries, the vehicle can serve as a patrol, reconnaissance, or rescue vehicle, or for cargo transport. There is no indication that weapons can be mounted on the vehicle, although Russian modifications are not ruled out.
The vehicle’s speed is around 80 km/h, with a range of approximately 250 km on a full tank. It can accommodate three people in the front seats and likely four on the cargo bed. The Desertcross-1000-3’s design allows for operation in challenging terrain and fording depths of up to 40 cm. It also features a winch in the front, aiding in vehicle recovery from mud. Its relatively low cost makes it easily replaceable if lost in combat.
While China may not be supplying heavy armored transporters, rocket launchers, or tanks to Russia, the provision of over 2,000 Desertcross-1000-3 vehicles for military use raises questions about the intended purpose of these vehicles. China’s leaders must have been aware that Russia would utilize these vehicles for military purposes rather than civilian applications, despite the abundance of such vehicles in the country.
In conclusion, the Desertcross-1000-3 vehicles supplied by China to Russia highlight the complexities of international arms trade and the blurred lines between civilian and military applications. The situation underscores the need for transparency and accountability in arms exports to prevent unintended consequences in conflict zones.