Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov announced on his Telegram channel plans to expand production at the Chechenavto automobile plant, including the manufacture of UAZ vehicles and other specialized equipment within the republic. He noted that on a recent visit, he and his close ally, Muslim Khuchiev, the Chairman of the Government of the Chechen Republic, assessed the current progress of the plant’s development and outlined a roadmap for upcoming outputs.
The announcement highlighted an intended lineup that includes the legendary UAZ models alongside a range of other purpose-built equipment. The initial phase envisions replacing existing vehicle types with UAZ Pickup, GAZ Sobol, and GAZ 3308 Sadko variants, with plans to install large-caliber weapons, communications systems, and other specialized gear on these platforms. In addition, these vehicles are expected to support personnel transport and missions involving traveling groups, underscoring the strategic role envisioned for the plant in regional security and mobility logistics.
Design work for these projects is being conducted by the Moscow State Technical University named after N. E. Bauman, a key institution in Russia’s technical education landscape. This collaboration signals an emphasis on advanced engineering and rigorous standards to ensure that the new vehicles meet contemporary requirements for durability, performance, and safety.
Earlier remarks indicated a broader international dimension to the program. It was stated that Russia could begin producing UAZ vehicles in an African partner country, Ghana, in the first quarter of the upcoming year. Representatives from both nations have since formalized their cooperation through signed protocols. Ghanaian engineers also visited Russia to meet with UAZ representatives, aligning expectations and confirming the prerequisites for facility readiness and equipment installation. As of now, preparations are underway to equip the Ghanaian facilities with the necessary infrastructure to commence local manufacturing, a move that underscores cross-border industrial collaboration and technology transfer agreements.
Additionally, reports from prior periods indicated that production of UAZ sport utility vehicles with Euro-5 compliant engines was slated to restart in 2024, signaling a renewed emphasis on modern emission standards and efficiency in the brand’s lineup. This renewed focus on cleaner technology aligns with broader automotive trends and regulatory environments shaping vehicle development across the region. (Source: official statements from Chechen authorities and partner institutions)