The BTR-60 is the first vehicle in a series of Russian 8 wheeled armoured personnel carriers. It was developed in late 1950s as a replacement for BTR-152 and was seen first time in public in 1961. BTR stands for Bronetransporter (БТР, Бронетранспортер, literally "Armoured Transporter"). Reference (PDF).

The boat-shaped hull is welded steel giving protection against small arms fire and shrapnel.

The vehicle is powered by two gasoline engines located in the rear of the hull, each powering two axles. It is fully amphibious and moves in water propelled by a single water-jet.

Variants

• BTR-60P

Initial version with open troop compartment

• BTR-60PA

This 1964 version has full armour cover for troops

• BTR-60PB

Fielded in 1965, turret similar as in BRDM-2 added

• BTR-60PBK

Company commander version with three additional radios

Combat history

The BTR-60 has seen action in the Yom Kippur War and the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.

See also

• BTR-152
• BTR-70 , BTR-80