GAZ-46 The GAZ-46 is a Soviet amphibious vehicle produced at the Gorky Automobile Plant starting in 1953. In the Soviet Army, this vehicle was designated as the "MAV" — small amphibious vehicle. The primary purpose of this vehicle was to support the operations of reconnaissance units and to perform engineering work on bodies of water.
Produced 1952-1955. Its GAZ-69 based 5-seat light amphibious vechicle. Its also called GAZ-46 “MAV”. Design of this jeep is similar to Ford GPA. For moving in water it has screw propeller in the back.
Wheels 4×4
Engine (GAZ-69)
Formula 4 cylinder gasoline
Displacement 2,12 liters
Perfomance 55hp @3600 rpm
Torque 170 nm @ 1400 rpm
Compression ratio 6.2:1
Gearbox 3*2 speeds
Fuel tank 2×45 liters
Fuel type A-72
Fuel consumption 15-22 liters/100 km
Top speed 90 km/h (9 km/h in water)
Measures
Lenght 5060 mm
Width 1735 mm
Height 1790 mm
Wheel base 2300 mm
Track width 1440 mm
Ground clearance 240 mm
Tyre size 7,50-16
Weights
Curb weight 1850 kg
Gross weight 2600 kg
The experience of the Second World War demonstrated both the strengths and weaknesses of various Soviet military hardware, as well as gaps in its development.
For instance, the army lacked domestically produced amphibious vehicles. At the same time, the all-wheel-drive four-wheeled Ford GPA amphibians and six-wheeled DUKW trucks received through the Lend-Lease program facilitated Soviet troops' river crossings in Eastern Europe during the final stage of the war.
Naturally, this military hardware was noted by the military, and after the conflict ended, it was included in the long-term rearmament plan alongside other models. The USSR began designing both light and cargo amphibious vehicles.
The Soviet military was primarily interested in a light command vehicle capable of crossing various water obstacles and moving in tandem with armored units. The six-wheeled DUKW cargo truck served as the first prototype for the ZIS-485—the Large Amphibious Vehicle (BAV)—while the GAZ-46, the Small Amphibious Vehicle (MAV), eventually became the Soviet equivalent of the Ford GPA amphibious jeep.
