The Most Excellent U.S Military Vehicles Of All Time
The U.S. military’s massive budget has fueled the creation of some of the most powerful and advanced vehicles ever made. Here’s a look at the most badass military vehicles in U.S. history.
The M-113 Armored Personnel Carrier
The M-113, an all-terrain military vehicle, entered service in the 1960s and can reach speeds of 40 mph with a 300-mile range. It was heavily used during the Vietnam War and conflicts in the Middle East, earning the nickname "Green Dragon" for its ability to navigate difficult terrain.
The Carrier, Personnel Half-Track M-3
The M-3 Halftrack, introduced in 1941, was widely used by American allies during World War II and the Cold War, with over 40,000 produced. While it served as a personnel carrier, artillery tractor, and more, some reports noted issues with its armor and overhead protection.
The Universal Bren Gun Carrier
The Universal Bren Gun Carrier, introduced in 1939, was a versatile military vehicle used for transporting troops, medivac, and carrying various weapons. With over 100,000 produced by the 1960s, it remains the most produced military vehicle in history, used by over 20 nations, including the U.S.
The Landing Vehicle Tracked (LVT)-4 Water Buffalo
The LVT-4 Water Buffalo, introduced in 1944, was an amphibious vehicle used by the U.S. Marine Corps in the Pacific during WWII for transporting troops and cargo. With over 6,000 produced, it also served as an assault vehicle and fire support, featuring armor kits to protect troops.
The High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (A.K.A. Humvee)
The Humvee, introduced in 1980, is a versatile military vehicle used for transporting personnel and cargo behind the front lines. Since 1996, it has been upgraded with advanced armor kits and is now used in over 30 countries, with a top speed of 65mph.
The Oshkosh Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) Military Vehicles
The Oshkosh MRAP, a 13-ton, all-terrain vehicle, was designed to withstand ambushes and IED attacks during the Iraq War. Deployed in over 12,000 units from 2007 to 2012, it served as a special forces vehicle and tactical ambulance, featuring infrared lights for stealth navigation.
The Oshkosh Logistic Vehicle System Replacement (LVSR)
The LVSR, used by the U.S. military since 2006, weighs 67,600 lbs and features ten independently suspended wheels. Its heavy-duty armor is customizable with removable protection kits to extend its lifespan, and it comes in three variants: wrecker, cargo, and tractor truck.
The Oshkosh Heavy Equipment Transport System (HETS)
The Oshkosh HET is a military transport system designed to deploy and evacuate heavy vehicles, including battle tanks, with a 700hp diesel engine. It operates in 12 countries and can reach speeds of 50 mph; it also appeared in the 1987 film Over The Top, where Sylvester Stallone’s character drives one.
The Seawolf Class Nuclear-Powered Fast Attack Submarines
The Seawolf Class, entered service in 1997, is one of the most advanced and expensive military submarines, costing around three billion dollars. Known for its stealth, it can carry 134 soldiers, track multiple targets, and continues to play a vital role in U.S. naval defense.
The Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit
The Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit, also known as the Stealth Bomber, costs about $737 million per unit, with only 20 in operation. Its radar-absorbing design allows it to fly 7,500 miles undetected, carrying over 39,000 lbs of weaponry, originally developed for Cold War defense.
