The ZBD-04 (VN11) is the tracked infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) based on the ZBD-97 IFV.

The ZBD-04 is developed for the PLA in the late 1990s. The vehicle was designed to provide protected transport for an infantry squad on the battlefield; to provide fire support for dismounted infantry, and to engage enemy tanks and armoured vehicles. The ZBD-04 is currently equipped by the amphibious mechanised divisions in South Military Region.

An armoured recovery vehicle (ARV) variant was also developed.

The ZBD-04 (VN11) IFV is designed to transport a squad of seven armed soldiers and provide direct fire support with 100mm HE projectiles, laser-beam riding gun-launched ATGMs, 30mm APDS and HEI projectiles, and 7.62mm machine guns. Its highly effective weapon system can destroy moving or stationary targets such as tanks, armoured vehicles, fortified structures and personnel targets under all weathers while the platform is stationary or moving.

ZBD-04 (VN11) features high mobility and full amphibious capability. With applique armour on the turret and the hull, a collective NBC protection system and a fire extinguishing/explosion suppression system, higher-level battlefield survivability is achieved.

By adopting an advanced integrated electronic system with various sensors, the ZBD-04 (VN11) IFV has all-weather engagement, laser-warning, positioning, navigation and battlefield command capabilities. It is without a doubt one of the most capable and powerful IFVs to satisfy current and future needs in military operations.