Tatra T815 Kolos

   The Tatra T815 heavy utility truck is a further development of the earlier Tatra 813. Both are named Kolos and are large and powerful load carriers produced in both 6x6 and 8x8 versions. There are two versions of the 8x8, one having a two-door cab, the other having four doors (with internal space for at least one bunk). The 6x6 version has a payload capacity of 8 000 kg.

   The Tatra T815 follows the earlier version in using a frameless chassis with the load-bearing section using main assembly unit cases inter-connected by load bearing tubes. The forward control cab is mounted on a through-frame to which all other forward components, including the engine, are fitted. In its cargo form, the Tatra T815 is used to carry heavy loads across country in forward areas but the vehicle is also used to carry heavy combat engineer equipment such as floating bridge sections. It is also used to carry the Czech 122 mm RM-70/85 multiple launch rocket system and the basic 8x8 chassis is used as the basis of the DANA 152-mm self-propelled howitzer. There is also a Slovak Tatrapan armored personnel carrier, based on the 6x6 version of the Kolos.

   The basic cargo version is also used as an artillery tractor for calibers up to 152 mm. Most versions carry a self-recovery winch and add-on extras include snow ploughs and a dozer blade for clearing obstacles. One special engineer version carries a large crane and a dozer blade. A tyre pressure regulation system may be fitted. The Tatra T813 and T815 have been exported and the 6x6 version of the T815 is license-produced in India; the 8x8 version is used by the Indian Army.

   A 4x4 version was introduced in 1993. Newer improved models of the T815 were produced since 1998 and 2010.