It was used by Soviet and other Warsaw Pact armed forces, as well as paramilitary units in Eastern Bloc countries.

In the Soviet Union, it also saw widespread service in state organizations that needed a robust and durable off-road vehicle.

It is powered by the same 75 hp (55 kW) 2,445 cc (149.2 cu in) UMZ-452MI inline-four engine as the UAZ-452 and is able to run on gasoline with an octane rating as low as 72 (although 76 was preferred).

In Mexico, a special package called Vallarta Kit, named after the beach resort of Puerto Vallarta, was released featuring a winch, steering assembly and gearbox reinforcement, snorkel, suspension kit and LED headlights, among other extras.

[12] A police patrol car version was available, based on the UAZ-31512-UMM with an insulated five-door metal body and optional special equipment.