April 19, 2014. Omsk-based Transport Machine-Building Design Bureau (KBTM, a member enterprise of Uralvagonzavod Corporation) is now working on upgrading its civilian-purpose PTS 4 amphibious assault troop carrier. The carrier is expected to be used by the Ministry of Emergencies, the Transport Ministry, and the Nature Ministry, Uralvagonzavod reports.

The ministries have felt the need for such a vehicle for a long time now. Last year, military vehicles had to be used for rescuing people during the terrible flood in the Far East. These were specifically the amphibious assault troop carriers that proved particularly efficient for the purpose; the carriers are meant for transporting artillery assets, infantry combat vehicles, armored vehicles, tractors, automobiles, troops, and various types of cargo. Following the RAE 2013 exhibition in Nizhniy Tagil, where PTS 4 demonstrated all of its advantages, customers started taking an interest in the civilian-purpose version of the machine.

This vehicle is indispensable in times of serious natural disasters as it can easily overcome both aquatic and terrestrial obstacles while carrying up to 12,000 kg worth of cargo on land and up to 18,000 kg worth of cargo on water.

In 2013, PTS 4 was added to the Russian Armed Forces’ fleet of vehicles.