The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has commissioned the JM-8 for logistics support missions in plateau regions with altitudes higher than 5,000 meters. It is an analogue of BAE Systems Hägglunds Bv 206 (Bandvagn 206) armoured all terrain vehicle, produced in Sweden. The vehicle can effectively solve the problem of difficulties in delivering goods to troops stationed in plateau regions. In a recent mission, the JM-8 delivered dozens of boxes of instant noodles and barrels of mineral water.
JM-8 is a newly-developed tracked articulated, all-terrain carrier made by NORINCO (China North Industries Group Corporation – CNGC). It consists of 2 units, with all 4 tracks powered. It can carry up to 17 people, trailer unit can be adapted for different uses. Can be used to transport personnel & logistics of troops in off-road and mountainous terrain. JM-8 articulated tracked vehicle can be used to transport personnel and logistics of troops in off-road and mountainous terrain, to assist in the conditions of natural disasters, to provide medical assistance and to combat forest fires.
JM-8, in contrast to the Bv206, has a reinforced chassis with one additional wheel. Designed with caterpillar tracks made of metalloid, this new all-terrain vehicle can tread over slopes of 35 degrees and can deliver 1.5 tons of goods. Track has a seamless rubber reinforced structure. The bodies of the front and rear sections are made of fiberglass. The power-pack is located behind the first section. Power transmission installation (MTO) is mounted in the aft part of the first section. Each trolley (link) has a central ridge frame and crawler beams suspended on transverse springs. The vehicle can be transported by air inside of the Mi-26 helicopter.
