In China, a convoy of more than a dozen modern, unidentified armored vehicles in desert camouflage was spotted on a remote road. They look like russian K-53949 Typhoon-K armored personnel carriers.
According to Defense Blog, the new Chinese armored vehicles are most likely based on the chassis of the Type 08 armored personnel carrier family. Although no official information is available, it is speculated that it's a modular platform designed for troop transport and command-and-control applications.
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From Defense Express we would like to add that although there is a visual resemblance to the russian Typhoon-K, they are still different vehicles. This is evident in the different wheel configurations: 8x8 for the Chinese vehicle versus 6x6 for the russian Typhoon-K.
In other words, this appears to be a larger and heavier armored vehicle, likely capable of carrying a greater payload or more passengers. In addition, using the chassis of existing armored personnel carriers improves standardization and enhances off-road performance.
As for the Chinese vehicle, it looks like a cheaper transportation alternative to traditional armored personnel carriers. The more conventional wheeled vehicle format improves mobility and simplifies logistical support.
In addition to C2 and evacuation roles, this platform is likely intended for the modular installation of specialized weapons and equipment. This is possible due to the use of a massive chassis.
The new Chinese armored vehicles have been spotted before. Similarly to how the Chinese propaganda boasted the J-35 fighter jet seroal production, CCTV has previously shown the manufacture of vehicles similar to the ones seen recently. No official information on the name or capabilities has been disclosed.
As early as 2010, older variants of these armored vehicles were spotted, indicating that this is not an entirely new project. However, China's secrecy about its armed forces limits any details in this area.
Earlier, Defense Express reported that China had unveiled its copy of russia's Club-K missile system.
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