Russian forces are modifying Chinese-made Desertcross 1000-3 all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), originally designed as civilian utility and recreational models, for remote-controlled battlefield use, Defence Blog reported.
The news outlet reported that troops from the 36th Guards Combined Arms Army, part of the “Vostok” grouping, are using a remote-controlled fiber-optic cable-laying system built on the Desertcross 1000-3 platform.
Reports said the project’s main goal is to reduce risks being faced by signal troops who set up and maintain communications lines on the front.
“By removing personnel from exposed positions and replacing them with remotely controlled platforms, the Russian military hopes to maintain network connectivity while minimizing casualties,” Defence Blog notes.
Manufactured by Shandong Odes Industry, the Desertcross 1000-3 is a four-wheel-drive platform with a 72-horsepower gasoline engine, a 50-liter fuel tank, and a load capacity of 300 kilograms.
Analysts noted that the Desertcross 1000-3 has been employed not only for laying communications lines but also in frontline assaults.
Open-source analysts on Wednesday released footage of a Ukrainian FPV drone striking a Chinese-made Desertcross 1000-3 operated by Russian marines near Pokrovsk.
❗️The moment of the attack of a 🇺🇦Ukrainian FPV drone on a 🇨🇳Chinese Desertcross-1000-3 buggy of 🇷🇺Russian marines near Pokrovsk pic.twitter.com/R1s0oeTYqS
— 🪖MilitaryNewsUA🇺🇦 (@front_ukrainian) September 30, 2025
According to Defence Blog, Russia has acquired thousands of Desertcross 1000-3 ATVs from China.
Moscow first displayed the Desertcross 1000-3 in 2023, when then-Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu announced that 1,590 units would be delivered by the end of 2024. Vehicles of this type were later observed near Staromlynivka that year.
