The T-55T Armored Recovery Vehicle was, as its designation implies, based on the Soviet T-55 tank. This vehicle replaced earlier armored recovery vehicles that were based on the T-34/85 and T-54, and was used to recover disabled or destroyed armored vehicles and perform field maintenance and repair.

The T-55T was fitted with a main winch, a two-ton hyrdraulic crane on the right side of the hull, a tow bar, and a rear spade. It also carried a variety of smaller equipment such as chain saws and welders for field repairs.

The vehicle's only armament was a 7.62mm machine gun.

The T-55T served in various armored formations and workshops of the former East German Army.