Country of origin |
United States |
Entered service |
1983 |
Configuration |
4x4 |
Cab seating |
1 + 3 men |
Dimensions and weight |
Weight (curb) |
2.34 t |
Maximum load |
1.25 t |
Length |
4.7 m |
Width |
2.12 m |
Height |
1.75 m |
Mobility |
Engine |
Detroit Diesel 6.2-liter diesel |
Engine power |
130 hp |
Maximum road speed |
105 - 112 km/h |
Range |
over 500 km |
Maneuverability |
Gradient |
60% |
Side slope |
40% |
Vertical step |
0.6 m |
Trench |
0.5 m |
Fording |
0.75 m |
Fording (with preparation) |
1.5 m |
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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. Eventually the HMMWVs replaced
M151 series jeeps
and some other US military vehicles and became the vehicular
backbone of the US Forces. Over 160 000 of these light utility
vehicles were built. Currently the HMMWV is in service with more than 50
countries. Its production still continues and improved versions of
this tactical vehicle continue to emerge. Due to its popularity the
HMMWV was excessively copied. Other manufacturers produce this light
utility vehicle under license. Also there are a number of
international variants and clones.
The M998 is
a baseline vehicle of the HMMWV family. It was designed
primarily for personnel and light cargo transport. This military
vehicle can tow M1101, M1102, or similar trailers, as well as light
artillery pieces, such as 120 mm mortars.
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. Vehicle is fitted
with a central tyre inflation system, which is adjusted from the
driver's station to suit various terrain conditions. Tyres are
fitted with run-flat inserts. Even with punctured tyres this vehicle
can travel at a speed of up to 50 km/h. A self-recovery
winch is fitted on some models. The HMMWV, fitted with a deep-water
fording kit, can ford water obstacles up to 1.5 m deep.
Vehicle is air transportable and
airdroppable from a variety of
military transport aircraft. It can be carried underslung by some
helicopters.
In 1995
production of the
M1114, an improved and armored variant, commenced.
It provides protection against small arms fire and landmines. This
variant is fitted with a larger and more powerful engine. The
M1151
is a recent uparmored version with heavier chassis and more powerful
engine.
There are
more than 20 variants of the HMMWV in service with the United States.
These include troop/cargo carriers, ambulances, armament carriers,
TOW missile carriers, shelters, prime movers and so on. Some of the
variants are armored.
A civilian
version of the HMMWV is the Hummer H1. It was produced between 1992
and 2006.
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