Overview

Overview

The ZIL-131 is a Soviet 6×6 all-wheel drive medium truck produced from 1967 to 1994 (USSR) and continuing in Russia until today. Built at Moscow's Zavod imeni Likhacheva (ZIL Plant), the 131 featured a 150 hp V8 gasoline engine, 5-tonne payload capacity, and superior fuel economy compared to its Ural-375D competitor, making it the preferred choice for rear-echelon logistics, artillery towing, and specialized military applications.

Over 1 million units were manufactured across nearly 60 years of production, with variants including cargo carriers, fuel tankers, command vehicles, mobile workshops, and launch platforms for tactical missiles (SCUD, FROG-7). The ZIL-131's balanced design—combining adequate power, reasonable fuel consumption (41 L/100 km vs. Ural-375's 47 L/100 km), and proven reliability—made it one of the Soviet military's most ubiquitous trucks, serving alongside (rather than replacing) the more powerful but thirstier Ural-375D.

Historical context

Soviet tactical transport doctrine (1960s)

By the mid-1960s, Soviet military planners recognized that two distinct 6×6 truck families were needed:

Forward combat vehicle: Ural-375D with maximum power (180 hp) for difficult terrain, artillery towing in frontline operations

Rear-area logistics: More fuel-efficient design for supply routes, rear-echelon transport where extreme power unnecessary

Existing trucks (GAZ-63 4×4, ZIL-157 6×6) lacked modern features:

  • Central tire inflation systems (CTIS)
  • Power steering
  • Better fuel economy
  • Improved driver ergonomics

ZIL-131 development (1963-1967)

ZIL Plant chief designer V.A. Grachev led "Project 131" with specific goals:

Balanced performance:

  • 150 hp engine (vs. Ural-375's 180 hp) sufficient for most tasks
  • Better fuel economy via smaller displacement, improved efficiency
  • 5-tonne payload identical to Ural-375

Modern features:

  • Central tire inflation system (CTIS)
  • Power steering (hydro-mechanical)
  • Improved cab comfort (sound insulation, heating)
  • Single-circuit braking with pneumatic assist

Reliability: 120,000+ km service life with reduced maintenance vs. older ZIL-157

Prototype testing (1964-1966) validated design. State acceptance trials completed 1967, with series production beginning same year at ZIL Plant Moscow.

Design philosophy: "Good enough for 80% of military tasks with 20% better fuel economy" vs. Ural-375D's "maximum power for extreme conditions"

Specifications

Commonly cited specifications (ZIL-131 standard cargo):

Dimensions:

  • Length: 6.995 m (22 ft 11 in)
  • Width: 2.50 m (8 ft 2 in)
  • Height: 2.98 m (9 ft 9 in) with canvas cover, 2.48 m cab roof
  • Wheelbase: 3.30 + 1.20 m (10 ft 10 in + 3 ft 11 in) short-long tandem rear
  • Track: 2.02 m (6 ft 8 in)
  • Ground clearance: 0.37 m (15 in) laden

Weights:

  • Curb weight: 6,675 kg (14,715 lb)
  • GVW: 11,500 kg (25,353 lb)
  • Payload: 5,000 kg (11,023 lb) cross-country, 5,825 kg (12,841 lb) on-road
  • Towing capacity: 8,000 kg (17,637 lb) trailer, 9,000 kg (19,842 lb) towed load

Cargo bed:

  • Length: 3.75 m (12 ft 4 in)
  • Width: 2.32 m (7 ft 7 in)
  • Sideboards: 0.65 m (26 in) height
  • Volume: 5.6 m³ (198 ft³)

Powerplant:

  • Engine: ZIL-131 V8 gasoline (not same as truck designation; coincidental numbering)
  • Configuration: 90° V8, overhead valve
  • Displacement: 6.00 L (366 cu in)
  • Bore × Stroke: 100 mm × 95 mm
  • Power: 150 hp (110 kW) at 3,200 rpm
  • Torque: 461 N⋅m (340 lb⋅ft) at 1,400-2,400 rpm
  • Compression ratio: 6.5:1 (multi-fuel capability)
  • Fuel system: K-88AT carburetor with air cleaner
  • Cooling: Liquid-cooled, front-mounted radiator
  • Fuel capacity: 2× 170 L = 340 L (90 gal) total

Transmission:

  • Type: Manual 5-speed (synchronized 3rd-5th gears)
  • Transfer case: 2-speed with front axle engagement, center differential lock
  • Clutch: Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated
  • Final drive ratio: 7.73:1

Performance:

  • Maximum speed: 80 km/h (50 mph) on road
  • Cruising speed: 60-70 km/h (37-43 mph) on-road, 30-40 km/h (19-25 mph) off-road
  • Range: 750 km (466 mi) on road, 520 km (323 mi) cross-country
  • Fuel consumption:
    • Road: 41 L/100 km (5.7 mpg)
    • Cross-country: 60-70 L/100 km (3.4-3.9 mpg)
  • Gradient: 60% (31°) with full load
  • Side slope: 30% (17°)
  • Vertical obstacle: 0.65 m (2 ft 2 in)
  • Trench crossing: 2.5 m (8 ft 2 in)
  • Fording: 1.4 m (4 ft 7 in) unprepared, 1.75 m (5 ft 9 in) with deep-fording kit

Suspension:

  • Front: Live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, hydraulic shock absorbers
  • Rear (tandem): Dual live axles with balancer beams, semi-elliptic leaf springs
  • Tire size: 12.00-18 (12.00 × 18 inches)—single tires all six wheels
  • CTIS: Central tire inflation system (driver-controlled: 0.5-3.5 kg/cm²)

Steering:

  • Type: Hydro-mechanical power steering
  • Turning radius: 10.0 m (32 ft 10 in)

Brakes:

  • Service brakes: Pneumatic drum brakes on all six wheels (dual-circuit system)
  • Parking brake: Mechanical driveshaft brake
  • Auxiliary brake: Engine compression brake

Winch:

  • Type: Mechanical PTO-driven (optional; standard on many military variants)
  • Capacity: 4,500 kg (9,921 lb) single-line
  • Cable length: 55 m (180 ft)

Electrical:

  • System: 12V DC
  • Generator: 700W G-250 alternator
  • Batteries: 2× 6-ST-90 (90 Ah each, series connection)
  • Lighting: Two headlamps, blackout lights, side/tail lights

Crew:

  • Cab capacity: 3 (driver + 2 passengers)
  • Cargo area: 24-30 troops with equipment (bench seating, canvas cover)

Design characteristics

6×6 drivetrain with differential lock

Permanent 6×6 drive: All six wheels driven continuously

Center differential lock:

  • Unlocked: Normal driving, allows front/rear axles different speeds (tight turns on pavement)
  • Locked: Off-road traction, equal power distribution front/rear axles

Advantages vs. Ural-375's three differential locks:

  • Simpler system (fewer components, lower maintenance)
  • Adequate for most military operations (rear-area logistics)
  • Cost savings in production

Tandem rear axles: Two rear axles on balancer beam distribute weight, maintain traction if one wheel lifts off ground

Power steering

Innovation: ZIL-131 first Soviet military truck with power steering standard

Type: Hydro-mechanical system

  • Hydraulic pump driven by engine
  • Reduces steering effort 5× vs. manual
  • Manual backup if hydraulic system fails

Benefits:

  • Reduced driver fatigue (critical for long-distance convoy operations)
  • Improved maneuverability in tight spaces
  • Easier control on rough terrain

ZIL-131 V8 engine

6.0 L displacement: Smaller than Ural-375's 7.0 L, but adequate for mission profile

150 hp output:

  • Sufficient for 5-tonne payload (same as Ural-375)
  • 20% less power than Ural-375 (180 hp)
  • Better fuel economy: 41 L/100 km vs. 47 L/100 km

Multi-fuel capability: Low 6.5:1 compression enables operation on 66-76 octane gasoline, kerosene, emergency fuel blends

Reliability: 120,000-150,000 km service life

Cab design

Improved ergonomics vs. ZIL-157:

  • Better sound insulation
  • Improved heating/ventilation
  • Larger windshield (better visibility)
  • Three-person bench seat

All-metal construction: Tilt-forward hood for engine access

Minimal amenities:

  • No air conditioning (not common in Soviet vehicles)
  • Manual controls (no power windows, locks)
  • Basic instruments (speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temp, oil pressure)

Variants and specialized vehicles

ZIL-131 cargo truck (base model)

Standard military configuration:

  • All-steel cargo bed with drop tailgate
  • Removable canvas cover, metal bows
  • Bench seating for 24-30 troops
  • Production: 1967-1994 (USSR), 1994-present (Russia limited production)

ZIL-131V command vehicle

Mobile command post:

  • Enclosed shelter with map tables
  • Radio equipment (R-140, R-145 series HF/VHF)
  • Generator (AB-1 auxiliary power)
  • Staff seating for 6-8 personnel

ZIL-131 fuel tanker (ATZ-4.4)

Fuel transport:

  • 4,400 L (1,162 gal) cylindrical tank
  • Hand-pump or powered fuel transfer system
  • Two compartments (gasoline/diesel separation)

ZIL-131 workshop (PM-130)

Mobile maintenance:

  • Enclosed shelter with tools, equipment
  • Welding generator
  • Lathe, drill press, vise
  • Spare parts storage

ZIL-131 communications

Radio relay:

  • R-142N HF communications system
  • 4-meter telescoping antenna mast
  • Auxiliary power generator

9P113 TEL (SCUD-B launcher)

Tactical missile launcher:

  • Modified ZIL-131 chassis
  • Single R-11 Elbrus (SCUD-B) missile on erector-launcher
  • Export: Numerous nations (Iraq, Libya, Egypt, North Korea)

9P129 TEL (FROG-7 launcher)

Unguided rocket launcher:

  • Modified ZIL-131 chassis
  • Single 9M21 Luna-M (FROG-7) rocket
  • Range: 70 km
  • Role: Tactical nuclear/conventional delivery

ZIL-131NA (Arctic variant)

Cold-weather configuration:

  • Additional cab insulation
  • Engine block heater standard
  • Heavy-duty batteries
  • Special lubricants
  • Enlarged fuel capacity (400 L)

ZIL-131NV (amphibious)

Water-crossing capability:

  • Waterproofed electrical systems
  • Bilge pump
  • Propeller drive (water speed: 6 km/h)
  • Production: Limited (experimental)

Operational deployment

Soviet/Russian military service

Service timeline:

  • 1967-1980: Introduction, supplementing ZIL-157 and Ural-375D
  • 1980-1991: Primary rear-echelon logistics, specialized platforms
  • 1991-2010: Continued Russian Army service
  • 2010+: Reserve units, gradual replacement by Ural-4320, KamAZ-4310

Military roles:

  • Rear-area logistics: Supply depots to forward bases (fuel, ammunition, food)
  • Artillery tractor: Towing D-30 122mm, D-20 152mm howitzers
  • Missile launcher: 9P113 (SCUD-B), 9P129 (FROG-7) platforms
  • Command vehicles: Mobile headquarters, communications relay
  • Specialized support: Fuel tankers, workshops, medical evacuation

Doctrine:

  • Second-echelon vehicle: Complemented Ural-375D (forward combat zones)
  • Fuel economy advantage: Better suited for long-distance convoy operations
  • Versatile platform: Basis for numerous specialized variants

Unit allocation:

  • Motor rifle/tank divisions: 100-150 ZIL-131 per division (transport companies, artillery tractors, support)
  • Rocket brigades: SCUD/FROG launchers
  • Logistics units: Fuel tankers, workshops, command vehicles

Export and global operators

Warsaw Pact: East Germany (NVA), Poland, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria Middle East: Iraq, Syria, Egypt, Libya, Yemen, Afghanistan Asia: Mongolia, Vietnam, North Korea, Laos Africa: Angola, Ethiopia, Mozambique, Algeria, Cuba Latin America: Nicaragua, Peru

Civilian production: ZIL-131 had civilian variants (construction, forestry, oilfield work), but primarily military focus

Combat record

Soviet-Afghan War (1979-1989):

  • Rear-area logistics (supply convoys Kabul-provinces)
  • Less common in frontline operations vs. Ural-375D (insufficient power for mountainous terrain)
  • Fuel economy advantage for long-distance convoy operations

Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988):

  • Iraqi ZIL-131 logistics, SCUD-B launcher platforms
  • Iranian captures of Iraqi ZIL-131 trucks

1991 Gulf War:

  • Iraqi ZIL-131 widespread use (logistics, SCUD launchers)
  • Coalition airstrikes destroyed many ZIL-131 convoys
  • 9P113 SCUD launchers high-priority targets ("SCUD hunts")

Chechen Wars (1994-2009):

  • Russian ZIL-131 logistics support
  • Vulnerable in urban ambushes (unarmored)

Syrian Civil War (2011-present):

  • Syrian government ZIL-131 logistics, troop transport
  • Rebel forces captured ZIL-131 trucks

Yemen Civil War (2015-present):

  • Both Houthi and Yemeni government forces operate ZIL-131

Ukraine conflict (2022-present):

  • Russian ZIL-131 in limited logistics roles (mostly replaced by Ural-4320, KamAZ-4310)
  • Ukrainian captures of ZIL-131 trucks (relatively rare vs. newer vehicles)

Strengths and limitations

Advantages

Fuel economy: 41 L/100 km road vs. Ural-375D's 47 L/100 km (13% improvement)

Power steering: Hydro-mechanical system reduces driver fatigue, improves maneuverability

Reliability: 120,000+ km service life, robust V8 engine

Versatility: Platform for dozens of variants (cargo, tanker, workshop, missile launcher, command)

6×6 mobility: All-wheel drive enables off-road operations (adequate for rear-echelon missions)

Towing capacity: 8,000 kg capacity adequate for medium artillery

CTIS: Central tire inflation system optimizes traction for terrain type

Production scale: 1+ million units produced ensured widespread availability, spare parts support

Limitations

Less powerful vs. Ural-375D: 150 hp vs. 180 hp (20% less power)—limits performance with heavy loads in extreme terrain

Gasoline engine: Fire risk vs. diesel (fuel tanks vulnerable), higher consumption vs. diesel trucks

No armor: Unarmored cab/cargo area vulnerable to small arms, shell fragments

Single differential lock: Only center lock (vs. Ural-375's three locks)—reduced traction in most extreme conditions

Comfort: Harsh ride, noisy, minimal driver amenities

Obsolescence: By 1980s, diesel trucks (Ural-4320, KamAZ-4310) offered better fuel economy, performance

Comparison with contemporaries

vs. Ural-375D (USSR, 6×6 competitor):

  • Power: 150 hp (ZIL) vs. 180 hp (Ural)
  • Fuel consumption: 41 L/100 km (ZIL) vs. 47 L/100 km (Ural)
  • Differential locks: 1 (ZIL) vs. 3 (Ural)
  • Power steering: Standard (ZIL) vs. none (Ural)
  • Result: ZIL better fuel economy/driver comfort, Ural superior power/extreme traction; complementary roles (ZIL rear-area, Ural forward combat)

vs. M35A2 "Deuce and a Half" (USA):

  • Payload: 5 tonnes (ZIL) vs. 2.5 tonnes (M35A2)
  • Engine: 150 hp gasoline (ZIL) vs. 140 hp diesel (M35A2)
  • Fuel consumption: ZIL worse (gasoline), M35A2 diesel more efficient
  • Result: ZIL double payload, M35A2 better fuel economy/range

vs. MAN 630 L2A (Germany):

  • Drivetrain: 6×6 (both)
  • Payload: 5 tonnes (ZIL) vs. 5 tonnes (MAN)
  • Engine: 150 hp gasoline (ZIL) vs. 150 hp diesel (MAN)
  • Fuel economy: MAN superior (diesel)
  • Result: Similar capabilities, MAN diesel advantage

vs. Ural-4320 (USSR, successor):

  • Engine: 150 hp gasoline (131) vs. 230 hp diesel (4320)
  • Fuel consumption: 41 L/100 km (131) vs. 28 L/100 km diesel (4320)
  • Result: Ural-4320 superior in all aspects (fuel economy, power, range); gradually replaced ZIL-131 by 2000s

Legacy and modern status

The ZIL-131 served Soviet/Russian forces for over 50 years, representing a balanced approach to military logistics—adequate power, reasonable fuel economy, and proven reliability. While overshadowed by the more famous Ural-375D, the ZIL-131 was actually more widely produced (1+ million vs. 800,000 Ural-375).

Production milestone: 1+ million units made ZIL-131 one of history's most-produced military trucks

Missile platform: 9P113 SCUD-B launcher variant achieved notoriety in Gulf War (1991)

Global reach: Operated by 60+ nations across six continents

Post-Soviet era:

  • Limited production continues in Russia (small batches for military, civilian customers)
  • Widespread civilian use (construction, oilfield work, forestry)
  • Many operate in developing nations (minimal maintenance infrastructure)
  • Popular with collectors, off-road enthusiasts

Museums: Preserved at Russian military museums, Kubinka Tank Museum, various Eastern European collections

Related equipment

Related sections

Technical glossary

6×6 drivetrain : All-wheel drive configuration with six driven wheels (three axles), providing superior traction vs. 4×4 or 4×2 configurations

Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS) : Driver-controlled air pressure adjustment optimizing traction for terrain type (high pressure for roads, low for soft ground)

Power steering : Hydro-mechanical or hydraulic system reducing steering effort, improving driver control and reducing fatigue

Multi-fuel capability : Engine ability to operate on various fuels (gasoline, kerosene, diesel blends) due to low compression ratio

9P113 TEL : Transporter-Erector-Launcher for R-11 Elbrus (SCUD-B) tactical ballistic missile on modified ZIL-131 chassis

9P129 TEL : Transporter-Erector-Launcher for 9M21 Luna-M (FROG-7) tactical rocket on modified ZIL-131 chassis