MILITARY VEHICLE TOURS

Description:

Currently the HMMWV or High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle is the most widely used military light utility vehicle in the world. The HMMWV was designed by the AM General. Production of the baseline M998 commenced in 1981. Initial batch of these utility vehicles was delivered to the US Army in 1983.

The M998 is powered by a Detroit Diesel 6.2-liter diesel engine, developing 130 hp. Engine is mated with an automatic transmission. The HMMWV vehicles are designed for use over all types of roads. All wheel drive, high power-to-weight ratio combining with high ground clearance give it good cross-country mobility. A wide track was designed to drive in tracks left by the main battle tanks.

Description:

The M1078 standard cargo truck is designed to transport cargo and soldiers. It has a payload capacity of 2.27 tons.  To facilitate loading and unloading the bed-side rails are mounted on hinges and can be lowered. The cargo bed can be equipped with an optional bench seat kit for the transport of soldiers. The bench seats are constructed of a non-wood material and attach to the cargo bed side rails and can be folded down and stowed when not in use. Soldiers are assisted when climbing in and out of the cargo bed area with the aid of a ladder, which is stowed on a vehicle when not in use. A canvas and bow kit are available to keep both soldiers and cargo protected from the elements. The M1078 can be equipped with optional electrically operated self-recovery winch kit capable of fore and aft vehicle recovery operations.

The vehicle is powered by a Caterpillar 3115 ATAAC 6.6-liter turbocharged diesel engine, developing 225 hp. At the time of its introduction, this engine was considered to be highly efficient and had low emissions. Later, an improved Caterpillar 3116 engine was fitted. Interestingly, the 6x6 version is fitted with a more powerful engine. The engine is coupled to a fully automatic transmission. The truck has power steering. A central tire pressure system is fitted as standard.