The Russian Ministry of Defense has taken delivery of 14 Plastun-SN light armored vehicles, all expertly concealed in military camouflage. These cutting-edge vehicles were officially introduced at the Army-2023 exhibition held in Moscow and are proudly manufactured in Novosibirsk. They have been skillfully adapted to meet the exacting demands of the Russian Armed Forces, with a procurement plan of at least 50 units initiated under a contract signed by the Russian Ministry of Defense. The Plastun-SN, a military iteration of the civilian Plastun all-terrain vehicle, bearing the “SN” designation, which stands for “Spetsialnogo Naznacheniya,” translating to “Special Purpose” in English, is designed to excel in a multitude of roles. These roles span from medical evacuation and reconnaissance to serving as a self-propelled mortar platform, offering indispensable artillery support.
At the Army-2023 Forum, a minimum of two Plastun-SN configurations were put on display to underscore the vehicle’s remarkable versatility in serving multiple functions. One variant was outfitted with an 82 mm mortar, showcasing its capacity to function as an artillery support vehicle. Another model was equipped with a telescopic mast and observation devices, emphasizing its worth as a reconnaissance vehicle. The vehicles’ operational readiness and performance capabilities were also rigorously tested at the Alabino training ground. The Plastun-SN light armored vehicle boasts a combined armor protection system that can effectively withstand bullets ranging from 9×19 mm to 7.62×39 mm. When it comes to overhead threats, the crew is shielded from adverse weather conditions by a waterproof canopy and a removable frame. However, the open design of the Plastun-SN leaves it potentially vulnerable to threats such as drone strikes or shrapnel from enemy fire. Nevertheless, it is equipped with a patented all-season track, measuring 500 mm in width.
The Plastun-SN tracked vehicle is propelled by a Lada 1.6-liter petrol engine, generating 106 horsepower and 148 Nm of torque. This engine enables a top speed of 50 km/h, with a recommended speed of 30 km/h. The vehicle features a 5-speed manual transmission, specific ground pressure of 0.118 kg/cm², and a fuel capacity of 135 liters. These vehicles can accommodate up to eight people on the ground or up to six when afloat, depending on the variant. The Plastun boasts a ground clearance of 500 mm and a track width of 500 mm. With a weight of 3,800 kg, these tracked all-terrain vehicles are capable of surmounting various obstacles, including ditches up to 30°, trenches up to 1 meter wide, side slopes up to 30°, uphill climbs exceeding 40°, and downhill descents at up to 45°. They are also amphibious, enabling them to navigate water obstacles. Additionally, they are equipped with a winch capable of ascending slopes at over 40°, further augmenting their adaptability and utility in diverse military operations.
