ZIS-42 half-track vehicle, USSR, WWII

The ZIS-42 was a Soviet half-track used as a versatile transport and supply vehicle during World War II. It was based on the ZIS-5 truck , but was fitted with a tracked undercarriage at the rear to greatly improve its off-road capability. This made it particularly valuable for use in mud, snow and rough terrain , particularly on the Eastern Front .

The ZIS-42 was used primarily for troop transport, supply, and as a tractor for artillery guns . It played a key role in the mobility of the Red Army , especially in regions with poor road conditions.

Application areas:

• Eastern Front (1942–1945): Transport of supplies and soldiers in difficult terrain.
• Winter offensives: Particularly useful in the Soviet winter thanks to the improved off-road capability.
• Artillery tractor: used to transport medium and heavy field guns.

For which country:

• Soviet Union (USSR)

Classification:

• half-track vehicles & transporters

Possible uses in tabletop games:

• Bolt Action: Ideal for Soviet troop movements and supply scenarios.
• Flames of War: Effective as an artillery tractor or transport vehicle.
• Chain of Command: Perfect for scenarios with winter or difficult terrain conditions.

Technical data:

• Crew: 2+10 (driver, co-driver + transport capacity for up to 10 soldiers)
• Length: 5.93 m
• Width: 2.33 m
• Height: 2.45 m
• Weight: 4.7 tons
• Armor: None (only protected cab)
• Armament:
  • Usually unarmed, occasionally equipped with a DT machine gun for self-defense
• Engine: ZIS-5, 73 hp
• Speed: Up to 36 km/h (road), 20 km/h (off-road)
• Traction force: Up to 3 tons (e.g. 76.2 mm ZIS-3 field gun)