ZIL-157
The ZIL-157 is a Soviet-era six-wheel drive (6x6) truck produced by the Zavod imeni Likhachova (ZIL) factory in Moscow from 1958 until 1978. It was one of the most widely produced and exported Soviet military trucks.
The ZIL-157 was designed to be a rugged and reliable vehicle capable of operating in harsh conditions, particularly in off-road environments. It was developed as a replacement for the ZIS-151. Key features included its high ground clearance, all-wheel drive, and single tires on all axles, which contributed to its excellent off-road performance.
It was powered by a six-cylinder, four-stroke gasoline engine. The truck's carrying capacity varied depending on the specific configuration, but it was typically rated to carry around 2.5 tons off-road and 4.5 tons on paved roads.
The ZIL-157 was produced in numerous variants, including cargo trucks, fuel tankers, artillery tractors, and mobile workshops. It saw widespread use in the Soviet military, as well as in civilian sectors such as agriculture, construction, and forestry.
The truck was also exported to numerous countries around the world, often to Soviet-aligned nations. It gained a reputation for its durability and simplicity of maintenance. Even after production ceased, the ZIL-157 continued to be used for many years, and can still be found in operation in some regions today.