M548

   The M548 tracked cargo carrier is an unarmored variant of the M113 APC. This vehicle was developed in 1965. It is a general purpose transport vehicle, intended to carry cargo or ammunition to forward areas. This tracked carrier is no longer in service with the US Army. It was exported to Argentina, Canada, Israel, Italy, Spain, Switzerland and some other countries. It is still operational with some export operators.

   Vehicle has a payload capacity of 5.45 t. It can carry three passengers in the cab and at least four in the cargo compartment.

   The M548 tracked carrier can be armed with a pintle-mounted 12.7-mm or 7.62-mm machine gun over the cab.

   The original M548 supply carrier was powered by Detroit Diesel 6V53 turbocharged diesel engine, developing 210 hp. Engine is mounted behind the cab. Vehicle has a low ground pressure and performs well in rugged terrain. The M548 is fully amphibious. On water it is propelled by it's tracks. Vehicle can be airlifted by the C-130 Hercules. It's height can be reduced by removing canvas top and folding windscreen.

   A number of the M548 variants were developed and fielded, including minelayer, recovery vehicle, various radar carriers, missile launchers. A stretched version with 6 road wheels was also used.

Variants

   M548A1. It has the same improvements as the M113A2, including improved suspension and cooling system. It replaced the earlier model in 1982;

   M548A2. This vehicle was in service with the US Marine Corps and was fitted with swimming equipment;

   M548A3, fitted with new diesel engine of the M113A3, developing 275 hp. Improved mobility allowed to keep up with MBTs and IFVs during combat operations. A number of previous vehicles were upgraded to this standard;

   M1015 electronic warfare shelter. Only a few hundred of these vehicles were built.