MAZ-543

   From the MAZ-537 series the MAZ-543 evolved as a specialist carrier vehicle which was used to carry numerous missile and rocket systems. It was designed in the 1960s and entered service in 1962. It was first publicly revealed in 1965 as a part of SS-1 Scud-B ballistic missile system.

   All MAZ-543 heavy trucks and their derivatives have forward control cabs, some versions using separate compartments on each side of the engine, each with tandem seating for two.

   The MAZ-543 is powered by a standard tank engine, developing 525 hp. The same engine, as well as many other automotive components were used from the previous MAZ-537. Vehicle has a full-time all-wheel drive. Standard equipment includes an engine pre-heater and powerful cab heaters. This heavy load carrier is also fitted with a central tyre inflation system.

   The MAZ-543 was used to carry numerous missile and rocket systems such as the SS-1 Scud series, and the SSC-3 coastal defense missile. Other vehicles are used as command and erector vehicles for the SA-10 Grumble missile system.

Variants

   MAZ-543P a baseline chassis with a payload capacity of 19 600 kg. It was used to carry the SS-12 Scaleboard medium range ballistic missile;

   MAZ-543A appeared in 1967. It is a more capable version, with a payload capacity of 22 000 kg. Layout of the engine compartment was revised. It was used as a base for the Smerch MLRS. There were also experimental emergency vehicle and crane, that did not reached production;

   MAZ-543M improved version, which appeared in the early 70s. It had some improvements over it's predecessor. Passenger cabin on the right was removed and replaced with engine compartment;

   MAZ-7310 cargo truck intended for civilian application. It is a variant of the basic series. This vehicle was revealed in 1974 and entered production in 1976. Other variants of this vehicle are the MAZ-7510 dump truck, and the MAZ-7910 pipeline carrier. An aircraft crash tender, the AA-60 (7310)-160.1, has also been produced. At least one experimental variant powered by a 1 100 hp gas turbine has been developed for trials;

   MAZ-7410 is a prime mover with a shorter wheelbase, which entered production in the mid-70s.