HobbyBoss 1/35 Russian KrAZ-260 Cargo Truck Plastic Model Kit [85510]

Production of the KrAZ-260 began some time during the early 1980s when it replaced the earlier KrAZ-255B on the production lines at the Kremenchug Motor Vehicle Plant. However, the vehicle was not disclosed to the general public until 1985 when examples were displayed towing 152mm 2A36 nuclear-capable field guns during a Red Square parade - the KrAZ-260 can tow loads of up to 10000 kg when fully loaded (30000 kg when empty). The Red Square example had an open body equipped with forward-facing bench seats although this had been a parade configuration. The normal body uses a conventional cargo body with tailgate all covered by the usual tilt over bows. A winch is a standard fitting under the cargo body and can be employed for either forward or rearwards recovery, including self-recovery. The overall appearance of the KrAZ-260 is similar to that of the earlier KrAZ-255B but the bonnet is more angular to accommodate the turbocharged diesel engine, and the overall dimensions are slightly larger. As far as can be determined the KrAZ-260 was produced for military service only and as apparently not been delivered to armed forces outside theSoviet Union. Variants known to exist include the KrAZ-260V tractor truck, used to tow a variety of semi-trailers, and the KrAZ-240. It was also used to tow platforms with S-300 missiles. This tractor truck has a 6x4 drive configuration, a slightly longer wheelbase (4.88 m+1.4 m) and an on-road load capacity of 16.8 t; it is used for long range logistic support duties, leaving the KrAZ-260 for forward area load carrying. In 1999 this heavy utility truck was succeeded with improved KrAZ-6322.