BTR-D is a version of BMD without a turret, which frees up a considerable amount of space in the center of the vehicle. In addition vehicle hull was lengthened to provide additional internal volume: this is evident from the addition of one more road wheel on either side. While the BMD-1 can carry 7 troops, the BTR-D can carry up to 13. The basic BTR-D is used to transport heavy weapons like ZU-23-2 and AGS-17 automatic grenade launcher.