Recent footage released by the Ukrainian military confirms the destruction of two Chinese-made Desertcross 1000-3 all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) near Krynky in the occupied Kherson region of Ukraine. This marks the first known loss of Chinese-made military equipment by Russia in the ongoing conflict.
The loss of these vehicles highlights the growing equipment challenges faced by the Russian military. Earlier this year, the U.S. and its allies imposed severe sanctions on Russia, which have disrupted the supply of essential components for military vehicles. In response, Russia has turned to China for supplies, including the Desertcross 1000-3 ATVs.
The Desertcross 1000-3 is a lightweight, all-terrain vehicle designed for military use. It is capable of carrying up to four personnel and can be equipped with a variety of weapons, including machine guns and grenade launchers.
Russian President Vladimir Putin inspected the newly acquired Desertcross 1000-3 ATVs at the Southern Military District headquarters in Rostov-on-Don just last month. During his visit, Putin received a comprehensive briefing on the operational capabilities of the Desertcross 1000-3.
The loss of the two Desertcross 1000-3 ATVs is a setback for Russia, but it is unlikely to have a significant impact on the overall course of the war. Russia has procured a large number of these vehicles, and it is likely that they will continue to play a role in the conflict.
However, the loss of these vehicles does raise questions about the quality of Chinese-made military equipment. China’s defense industry has grown rapidly in recent years, but it is still relatively new and untested. The loss of the Desertcross 1000-3 ATVs could damage China’s reputation as a supplier of military equipment.
Overall, the loss of the two Desertcross 1000-3 ATVs is a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by the Russian military. The war in Ukraine has taken a heavy toll on Russia’s equipment, and the sanctions imposed by the U.S. and its allies have made it difficult for Russia to replenish its supplies. As the war drags on, Russia is likely to face even greater shortages of equipment, which could make it difficult for Russia to continue its offensive in Ukraine.