ZiS-151

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

ZiS-151-base with P-3 radio-location station

ZiL-151-based BM-13, Katyusha multiple rocket launcher

The ZiS-151 (Russian: ЗиС-151) is a general-purpose truck, produced by the Soviet Union in 1947–65, at Automotive Factory No. 2 Zavod imeni Stalina. In 1956, the factory was renamed Zavod imeni Likhacheva, and new trucks were called ZiL-151 (ЗиЛ-151).

The ZiS-151 was the first major Soviet military all-wheel-drive truck built following World War II, replacing the U.S. Studebaker US6, and earlier ZiS-6. In early 1948, the cabs were made of wood, soon replaced with a steel cab. Tens of thousands were produced, including specialized versions for hauling different types of cargo. The Soviets found the trucks an ideal platform for BM-13 Katyusha rocket launchers. One of the most famous developments of ZiS-151 was BTR-152 armored personnel carrier.

In 1958 ZiL-151 model was replaced by the ZiL-157, differed outwardly by grille and having a single rear axle, instead of the ZiL-151's tandem wheels.