The Dynamic Containers on Sakhal have washed ashore on the islands surrounding the mainland and offer some nice gear! The Dynamic Containers are now a part of a longer mission within the Frostline DLC in addition to the quest for the bunker (which was already present on the map).
NOTE: This guide is written for the unchanged setup found on Vanilla DayZ. If you play any community server, I can not guarantee that they haven’t changed anything from here.
In this guide I will take you along on how to get to (and loot) all the containers! To successfully complete the Sakhal container mission, there are three key parts that play a role in this adventure:
- A Boat to navigate the waters of Sakhal.
- The Keys to unlock the Containers.
- Locating the Containers themselves along the outer perimeter.
You can use the Table of Contents from this guide to quickly navigate to the part that you need. Or, if you are starting fresh, let me guide you all the way through!
Introducing Changes to Sakhal’s Dynamic Containers
The Dynamic Containers found on Sakhal have undergone significant changes to their gameplay design since the launch of the map back in October of 2024. The modification to the Containers requires a fresh approach to access. Where before you could find green military containers, you now will find military containers with a colored lock that offers a wider variety of gear with an improved loot pool.
How to open the locked containers on Sakhal
Previously accessible to anyone with a boat or the fortitude to brave the harsh waters, the Dynamic Containers are now secured with colored locks restricting access. Some things to consider:
- Key Retrieval: Keys are found in the shipwreck south of the southwestern island called Shantar (шантар).
- Key Usage: Each container has a differently colored lock and only the matching key will unlock the doors. These keys vary in condition from pristine to damaged.
- Key Colors: There are red, orange, blue, and yellow keys and using the wrong container will ruin the key, rendering it useless.
- Indestructible Locks: Containers cannot be opened by force. Firepower, explosives, hacksaws, and building tools are all ineffective. You will have to find the correct keys.
- Container Loot: Under vanilla settings, the containers are the only source of the M16-A2, M4-A1, AK-101, and other gear of Western Origin- i.e. the Tactical Helmet.
Where to find the keys and containers on Sakhal
Now, there is not a briefcase or any other prerequisite like there is with the bunker mission, but keep your eyes peeled for a spark plug and a potential container for fuel. Although not a requirement, boats will greatly speed up your adventure to locate the keys and find the Locked Sakhal Containers.
Where to find the blue and yellow keys and containers
To find the blue and yellow keys on Sakhal, first you will need to cross the Borokan (Борокан) Military Peninsula.
Then afterwards you will need to head off south west from the military peninsula’s coast to the island called Shantar (шантар). Then lastly just of the south west coast of that island you will find the ship wreck.
It is here that you find the Blue & Yellow Keys to unlock the Dynamic Containers that have washed ashore along the outer islands that border the map. There are several routes to take depending where your adventure begins…
Where to find the orange and red keys and containers
As of the time of writing this article (May 23rd, 2025) there are no red and orange containers on the vanilla container mission on Sakhal. However we as KarmaKrew added them to our Sakhal server in order to make the mission more interesting!
Conclusion
In summary, the latest update to the DayZ Sakhal Map and the Quest of the Dynamic Containers introduces a more intricate and rewarding exploration experience. By understanding and adapting to these changes, players can optimize their survival strategies and thrive in this evolving landscape. Please let us know your thoughts around the changes in the comment section below!
Additionally, here is analysis from WOBO highlighting all of the changes to Sakhal in 1.27:
WOBO’s Guide on changes to the Frostline DLC in 1.27.
FAQ:
When was the DayZ 1.27 Update Released?
February 2025
How have the Dynamic Containers in Sakhal been changed?
They now spawn with a lock and key. Requiring players to search the shipwreck to the west of Shantar (шантар) Island.
What are some of the vanilla updates to Sakhal in 1.27?
Locked Dynamic Containers, Navigational Buoys, Updates to the Eastern Region of Sakhal just to name a few.
Where can the new shipwreck of Sakhal be found?
West of the Shantar (шантар) Island.
Why did my key break without opening the new locked containers?
Your key must match the color of the lock on the Dynamic Container otherwise it will break and ruin the key.
Why can’t I find the Red or Orange Key on Sakhal?
The red and orange keys have not yet been made available in the Vanilla Dynamic Container Mission.
What is the best loot route on Sakhal in 1.27?
Although there are many paths of success in DayZ, the newest way to find some of the best gear is to search for the shipwreck and unlock the dynamic Containers containing high-tier military equipment.
What loot can be found in the Sakhal Dynamic Containers?
Under vanilla settings, the containers are the only source of the M16-A2, M4-A1, AK-101, and other gear of Western Origin- i.e. the Tactical Helmet.
