The ZBD-03 is China's first airborne IFV, designed to improve the capabilities of the PLA's airborne forces. Undoubtedly inspired by the Russian BMD series, the ZBD-03 has a compact welded hull which shows definitive lineage from China's larger IFVs such as the ZBD-97/04. It's small size and weight enable it to be air droppable from IL-76Ms, although the crew and troops must jump separately from the vehicle. The drawback is that it offers only minimal protection against small arms and shrapnel. Layout is conventional, with a front driving compartment, behind which is the engine and a troop compartment in the rear. This can carry up to five infantrymen. The one-man turret carries a 30-mm autocannon along with an ATGW launcher. The ZBD-03 is fully amphibious and is driven through the water with its tracks. Additionally, it's hydropneumatic suspension offers variable ground clearance and this helps reduce the impact when hitting the ground after an air drop. The ZBD-03 is believed to be in service with the PLA's airborne forces although it is unknown in what quantity. No export orders are known of.

The initial design for an airborne IFV was known as the ZLC-2000 and revealed in 2003. This was followed by the upgraded ZBD-03. Aside from the basic IFV version, there is a command vehicle as well as an ATGM vehicle armed with HJ-8 missiles.