China’s Tiger 4×4 armored vehicles to the ongoing Ukraine conflict was revealed in a video shared on June 6, 2023, via , the head of the Chechen Republic, Ramzan Akhmadovich Kadyrov’s Telegram account. This move follows Kadyrov’s announcement on February 26th, where he publicly declared the deployment of Chechen military forces to Ukraine as directed by Russian President Vladimir Putin. In June 2022, Kadyrov announced the formation of four exclusive ethnic Chechen battalions named “North-Akhmat,” “South-Akhmat,” “West-Akhmat,” and “East-Akhmat.” These battalions are expected to play a role in the Ukraine conflict. Additionally, the Institute for the Study of War has suggested that Kadyrov’s troops may take on the primary shock troop role in the Donbas, formerly held by Wagner PMC, following their withdrawal.
The Chinese Tiger armoured personnel carriers boast several combat-oriented features. Manufactured by Baoji Special Vehicles Manufacturing in Shaanxi Province, China, known for their special-purpose vehicles, these vehicles are built on a civilian 4×4 cross-country truck chassis. The vehicle was introduced at the Eurosatory 2012 International Land Security and Defence Exhibition held in Paris, France, in June 2012. The APC configuration is designed to transport infantrymen to the battlefield with enhanced armour protection. It can be configured for various roles such as command post, law enforcement, riot control, and ambulance. They feature a protected crew cabin with bulletproof windows and doors in the middle section, while the rear compartment can comfortably accommodate nine fully-equipped soldiers.
The Tiger 4×4 APC is powered by a Cummins ISDE200-30 diesel engine, generating 140 kW power at 2,500 rpm, with the engine compartment located in the front. It can reach a top road speed of 115 km/h and has a range of up to 600 km. The vehicle’s off-road performance and maneuverability are evident with a ground clearance of 0.35 meters and a turning circle diameter of 15 meters. Measuring 5.36 meters in length, 2.32 meters in width, and 2.3 meters in height, the Tiger has a curb weight of 4,500 kg and a fuel capacity of 120 liters. It offers a payload capacity of 1,100 kg and can tow other vehicles weighing up to 2,000 kg. The vehicle is equipped with a circular turret on top of the hull for engaging lightly armored targets and armored personnel.
