Chinese “golf carts” Desertcross 1000-3 play a crucial role in the Ukrainian conflict

English Posted on  —by Nicolle4

Chinese Desertcross 1000-3 vehicles play a crucial role in the Russia-Ukraine conflictChinese Desertcross 1000-3 vehicles play a crucial role in the Russia-Ukraine conflict (X @RALee85)

The Russian forces have been using Chinese Desertcross 1000-3 vehicles, which resemble golf carts but function as buggies, to assist in military operations against Ukraine.

These vehicles began to be used in November 2023, and by December 2024, over 2,000 units had been sent to the Russian troops. The main function of the Desertcross 1000-3 is the transportation of personnel, ammunition, and food, as well as performing evacuations, patrols, reconnaissance, and logistics in difficult terrain.

Manufactured by the Chinese company Shandong Odes Industry, the Desertcross 1000-3 are lightweight, have all-wheel drive, and can carry up to 550 kg, with a towing capacity of 300 kg. They are equipped with 87-horsepower gasoline engines and have a top speed of 80 km/h.

Although they are not armored, the vehicles have been modified by the Russians with reinforcements such as protective grids against drones and smoke grenade launchers to conceal their movements.

In December 2023, the Chinese company was added by Ukraine to its list of international war sponsors due to the supply of these vehicles to Russia. Despite this, Shandong Odes continues to provide other products to the invading country, with over 60 Russian dealerships selling and offering maintenance for these vehicles.

These models, originally designed for tourism and recreation, have primarily been used for logistical and transport operations, with Russia using them to fill the gap left by armored vehicles lost in combat. Although their lack of armor makes them vulnerable to small arms fire and landmines, they have been a useful resource for missions in difficult terrain and for quick transport of troops and materials.

The increasing use of these vehicles on the front line has led Russia to establish training centers for drivers and invest in modifications to improve their effectiveness in battle.

Russian forces continue to acquire Desertcross 1000-3, requiring the Ukrainian army to use drones and munitions to destroy these units, as they remain easy targets for Ukrainian defense.

Source: MilitarNYI | Photo: X @RALee85 | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team

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