The GAZ-2330 Tigr (Tiger) light utility vehicle was designed by the famous Russian automaker GAZ for military and civil markets. The GAZ-2975 is a military version of this high-mobility vehicle. It is broadly similar to the US HMMWV. First prototypes were revealed in 2002. Production commenced in 2005. Currently it is in service with the Russian Ministry of Defense and Ministry of Internal Affairs. These vehicles are used to deploy rapid-reaction teams, escort convoys, conduct patrols. Some sources claim that by 2010 only just over 350 of these vehicles were delivered.

The GAZ Tigr is simple in design and technology. It is about the same size as the HMMWV. This utility vehicle has a payload capacity of 1 500 kg. It is available with various body styles - passenger, armored, cargo. It can be tailored to suit various mission requirements.

The standard version of the Tigr high-mobility vehicle provides seating for driver and 11 passengers. Other configurations accommodate 1 + 3, 2 + 4 or 2 + 7 soldiers.

A 7.62-mm, 12.7-mm machine gun or 30-mm automatic grenade launcher can be mounted on top of the roof. There is also a roof hatch.

An armored version of the Tigr is available. It has welded 5 mm armor plates and is also fitted with a spall liner. Two protection levels are available. Vehicle's armor provides protection against small arms fire, artillery shell splinters and IEDs. Armored version is 700 kg heavier, than the standard Tigr.

The GAZ Tigr is available with Cummins B-180 (5.9-liter, 180 hp), Cummins B-214 (5.9-liter, 215 hp) or GAZ-562 (3.2-liter, 197 hp) turbocharged diesel engine. It seems that other engines are also available. This vehicle is proposed with manual or automatic transmissions. The Tigr uses some proven automotive components of the BTR-80 APC and GAZ Vodnik light utility vehicle. This vehicle has a full-time all-wheel-drive. It is fitted with a central tyre inflation system. A tyre pressure is adapted to suit various terrain conditions. This military truck has an engine pre-heater, which allows to start the engine, when the temperature is as low as -50°C. A 4 000 kg capacity self-recovery winch is fitted as an option.

 

Variants

 

SPM-1 special police vehicle, developed for the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs. It is an armored version of the Tigr, which provides protection against 7.62-mm rounds. It provides seating for two crew members and up to 7 passengers;

SPM-2 special police vehicle, similar to the SPM-1, but has built-in firing ports in it's windows.