Russian BTR-50 APC

Just about the last thing you expect to find in the Australian Outback is a complete example of a Russian BTR-50 amphibious armoured personnel carrier. These vehicles were the first true APC's; the problem being they were quickly outclassed by everyone else's products.

Little provision is made for practicality in these vehicles combat wise as the passengers had to enter and exit via roof hatches, (one is in the open position) which makes for an excellent target. The vehicle pictured has a large hatch in its side which is not a feature of other BTR-50's I have seen, doubtless there are many variants and licenced copies.

Internally the vehicle is very spacious having little more than a driving position and a set of bench seats.

The vehicle pictured is to my knowledge the last of 4 at this location, all the others have been converted into "bathtubs" and had drilling equipment added.