The BTR-40 (and BRDM-2) vehicles were developed from the GAZ-62A truck, and began production in the mid-1950s. The BTR-40 was a fully armored amphibious vehicle that normally was used for reconnaissance.

It had four wheels with a centralized tire pressure regulation system, along with two pairs for powered wheels under the hull to increase mobility (the belly wheels could be raised when traveling on roads). It was powered by a 140hp V-8 engine.

For amphibious operations, it had a single water jet and a trim vane on the front of the hull.

To support night operations, the BTR-40 had an infrared spotlight, night sight, and driving lights. It was also equipped with an NBC filtration system.

The BTR-40 had several variants, including command, reconnaissance, NBC reconnaissance, ATGM launcher, and SAM launcher.

The command vehicle on display has no turret or weapons, and carries a generator and extra radios (R107 and R123).