The Ural-375 is a highly capable Soviet-designed 4.5-ton 6×6 multi-purpose military truck that saw widespread tactical deployment in Angola. It served as a primary heavy logistics and weapons platform during the Angolan Civil War and subsequent regional conflicts.
Role and Use in Angola
- BM-21 Grad Platform: The Angolan military heavily utilized the Ural-375D variants as the primary mobile chassis for the BM-21 Grad Multiple Rocket Launcher System (MLRS).
- Troop & Supply Transport: Thanks to its extreme cross-country performance, it functioned as an essential cargo hauler across Angola’s rough, undeveloped bush terrain.
- Anti-Aircraft & Artillery Support: It frequently acted as a tow vehicle or mobile mounting base for divisional field guns and anti-aircraft weapons.
- Conflict History: These trucks were supplied in large numbers by the Soviet Union to support the People’s Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) forces and were later documented by UNAVEM II peacekeepers.
Technical Specifications
- Engine: 7.0-litre ZIL-375Ya V8 petrol carburetor engine delivering 180 horsepower.
- Drivetrain: 6×6 permanent all-wheel drive via a 5-speed manual gearbox and 2-speed transfer case.
- Mobility: Equipped with a centralized tire inflation system and specialized tractor-profile tires for extreme mud and sand navigation.
- Fording Depth: Capable of driving through water up to 1.5 meters deep.