Berliet developed two truck models primarily for rough handling in the late 70s to cater to construction and project sites as well as export to Africa. One was an entry level model called the GBH 260 and the more powerful 6-cylinder, 12 litre engine model called the GBH280.

This model was exported in large numbers to Senegal, Gabon and even Nigeria.

These Berliet GBH 280 large capacity water tankers were used by various Fire Department's in France to supply water directly to the Fire Tenders when water was not locally available. Several of these were also used by Civil Security units to douse forest fires as these vehicles also carry a fire rotating spool in case of emergencies. Some trucks used to carry up to 15,000 litres of water.

This metal scale model is an exact rendition of one of the tankers numbered 02 (see last image).