The MT-LB is a simple armoured vehicle which can function as personnel carrier, cargo carrier or artillery tractor (in the latter role, it can tow an artillery piece whilst carrying the crew and a supply of ready ammunition). The design used existing components wherever possible, including a standard truck engine, making repairs and maintenance relatively easy. There is a small turret at the front of the vehicle which holds the armament, a 7.62mm PK machine gun. There is a firing port on each side of the hull, and one in each rear door.