| The BTR-D was first seen during the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan and is often referred to as the BMD M1979 by NATO. It is distinguishable from the standard BMD by its longer
chassis with six rather than five road wheels, different hull top and lack of a turret. The basic BTR-D is a multi-purpose armored transporter used by the former Soviet VDV
(Air Assault Forces) air assault divisions, for a variety of roles including troop transporter, towing support weapons such as the 23 mm ZU-23 light anti-aircraft gun and
maintenance support.
The BTR-D is based on automotive components of the BMD-1 airborne combat vehicle and like this vehicle has a hull of all-welded aluminum construction. The glacis
protection of the vehicle has been increased by the use of a dual slanted angle in the upper plates of the armor at the front. The BTR-D can carry 13 men, the driver/mechanic
at the front, a bow machine gunner either side and 10 infantrymen at the rear, the bow machine gunners normally deploy with the infantry. A total of 2000 rounds of 7.62mm
ammunition is carried for the 7.62mm PKT machine guns mounted at the front of the vehicle and an additional two 7.62mm PKT machine guns can be mounted on the roof.
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