Russia Turns Chinese “Golf Carts” Into Remote-Controlled Combat Vehicles on the Frontlines

Russian forces are adapting Chinese-made all-terrain vehicles for use on the battlefield, converting them into remotely operated platforms for logistics and communications, according to Defence Blog on September 30.

The publication reported that troops from the 36th Guards Combined Arms Army of the “Vostok” grouping are employing a remote-controlled fiber-optic cable-laying system built on the Desertcross 1000-3 platform.

Originally designed as a civilian utility and recreational vehicle, the model has been modified to install up to five kilometers of communications cable across varied terrain.

The Desertcross 1000-3 is a four-wheel-drive vehicle powered by a 72-horsepower gasoline engine, with a mass of 916 kilograms and a load capacity of 300 kilograms.

This allows the system to transport equipment such as towed mortars with limited ammunition. Although marketed in China as a golf cart and off-road vehicle for tourism or commercial use, the model is now being integrated into Russian frontline operations.

The remote-control system added to the Desertcross reportedly uses commercially available components, with certain parts produced via 3D-printing. Operators can manage the vehicles from a distance, enabling cable deployment or supply delivery without exposing personnel to artillery, drones, or small-arms fire.

According to Defence Blog, Russia has acquired thousands of Desertcross vehicles from China and is employing them not only for logistics but also during assaults on Ukrainian positions.

Earlier, Russia copied Ukraine’s foldable anti-drone “hood” for its T-72 and T-80 tanks, while China has now patented a similar system under the name Dragon Shield.

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