ZLC 2000

   The ZLC 2000 airborne combat vehicle reportedly entered service with Chinese airborne units in 2003. It is also referred as the WZ506. This vehicle was was first observed in 2005. It is the first Chinese ACV, which greatly enhanced China's offensive capability. The ZLC 2000 was indigenously developed in China, however it might contain some Russian technologies, used on the BMD-3.

   The ZLC 2000 has a box-shaped hull and a front engine compartment. This vehicle has limited armor protection due to it's low weight required for airborne operations.

   Vehicle is fitted with a one-man turret, armed with 25-mm cannon. It fires in 3- or 5-round burst modes, while the maximum rate of fire is 200 rpm. The ZLC 2000 turret is fitted with HJ-73C anti-tank guided missile launcher. Three of these missiles are carried inside the hull. There is also a coaxial 7.62-mm or 5.8-mm machine gun.

   The ZLC 2000 has a crew of three and can carry four troops. There are a some firing ports and associated periscopes provides for the troops. Occupants enter and leave the vehicle via the rear doors or roof hatches.

   The ZLC 2000 is powered by an unspecified diesel engine. This ACV has a hydropneumatic suspension system with adjustable ground clearance. Tracks are retracted before airdropping to reduce the impact during landing. This vehicle can be airdropped from any medium transport aircraft using parachute platform. The IL-76MD can carry three of these vehicles. Unlike the latest Russian ACV designs the ZLC 2000 is dropped separately from the crew. The ZLC 2000 is fully amphibious. On water it is propelled by it's tracks.

Variants

   Command vehicle, has a higher rear hull to accommodate staff;

   Anti-tank guided missile carrier, armed with HJ-8 anti-tank missiles.