TAB-71

Notes: This is a local Romanian version of the BTR-60PB, in service with Romania, Moldova, and Yugoslavia. The two gasoline engines have been replaced with more powerful gasoline engines in the TAB-71. The TAB-71 has a front-mounted winch with a capacity of 5500kg. There are several versions of this vehicle, including APC, command, recovery, and mortar carrier versions. The mortar carrier is dealt with in the self-propelled artillery section, and the recovery vehicle is dealt with in the engineer vehicle section.

The TAB-71A R 450 is a lower-echelon command vehicle, with an extra radio. The TAB-71A R 451 is used at a higher echelon of leadership; it has 4 radios (one of which is long range), and a 4kW generator on the right side of the roof in an armored box. The turret is smaller and lighter, and armed only with a PKT machinegun.

Notes: Replacing the BTR-70 in Romanian service, the TAB-77 is basically a BTR-70 with some minor differences to suit Romanian needs and production methods. The main difference is the engines; the two gasoline-powered engines of the BTR-70 are replaced with two diesel engines of local design. The turret is also of local design, with far better elevation for the weapons (almost straight up) and stronger construction. There is a small door in each side of the passenger compartment; though larger than that of the BTR-70, it is still a tight fit, especially for a fully loaded soldier. The front deck has hatches for the driver and commander, and there are two hatches in the deck behind the turret that are the primary means of entry and exit for the crew and passengers. In addition, there is a small hatch in the turret; this is primarily for observation, since even a small person cannot quickly squeeze himself through it. There are three firing ports on each side of the passenger compartment.

The TAB-77A 145M is a command vehicle with 8 radios and a low-profile turret armed with a single machinegun.

The B-33 is the latest version of the TAB-77. A single diesel engine, rather than the TAB-77s two engines power it. It was first seen in 1996.

Notes: This Romanian vehicle uses many automotive components of the TAB-77. Although classed as an APC, its Romanian designation is reconnaissance armored personnel carrier. It is a 4x4 vehicle, smaller but more heavily armored than the TAB-77 series. The commander and driver sit at the front of the vehicle, the driver on the left and commander beside him on the right. The commander and driver have a windshield to the front that may be covered by an armored shutter (they then use vision blocks). The turret is identical to the TAB-77s. The passengers have hatches on either side of the vehicle between the wheels, and another door on the rear. There is also a hatch on the roof of the vehicle behind the turret. The passengers have firing ports, two to a side. The TABC-79 has a 5500kg winch on the front. This vehicle was first seen in early 1997.