The AVLB is based on a T-55A medium tank chassis, with the turret detached and replaced by a special bridge launching equipment.

The MT-55, Base T-55, was designed and produced by ZŤS Martin from 1962 (the former Czechoslovakia was one of the countries that build the T-54/55 series under licence).

All mechanisms of the MT-55A used for laying and recovering the bridge can be controlled by the crew from inside the tank with the hatch covers closed.

[1][3] To begin the launching process, the vehicle stops short of the gap; then, the bridge swings ahead and down while its two sections open like scissors.

Total production of the MT-55A between 1969 and 1983 amounted to 1,762 vehicles, including 183 export versions MT-55KS (from 1971) and 458[17] hulls for East Germany's BLG-60 programme.