The Department of Defense received a budget of $686.1 billion for military equipment, surpassing the previous allocation of $612 billion four years earlier. With $617 billion designated for base funds and $69 billion for war funding, the substantial investment has contributed to the development of highly formidable military vehicles in the United States, showcasing a collection of exceptionally superior machines that cater to both military enthusiasts and those with a general appreciation for military technology.
Discover some of the most captivating military vehicles ever created, let’s begin with:
Buffalo Clearance Vehicle
The Buffalo Clearance Vehicle, measuring 27 feet in length and weighing 76,000 pounds, holds significant importance within the vault. This prized vehicle is classified as a mine-protected route clearance vehicle (MPCV) and boasts a speed of 55 miles per hour. Equipped with a 30-foot robotic arm, complete with a camera and sensory devices, it aids in avoiding perilous routes. If it looks familiar, that’s because it was the vehicle mode of Decepticon Bonecrusher in the 2007 Transformers movie, who fought Optimus Prime on the highway.
Black Knight Transformer
If cruising through a desert at 70 miles per hour doesn’t provide enough excitement, prepare to be thrilled by the Black Knight Transformer. This innovative vehicle combines the capabilities of a helicopter and a truck, allowing it to soar up to 10,000 feet above ground. The concept of this transforming marvel was initially unveiled in 2012 and has been continuously evolving since then. If you have a preference for taking to the skies rather than sticking to the roads, this is the perfect choice for you.
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Reddit - r/WeirdWings
Airbus Beluga
The Airbus A300-600ST, popularly known as the Beluga, is a wide-body airliner specially designed to transport oversized cargo and aircraft components. It boasts an impressive capacity of 54 tons, surpassing that of most other aircraft. This remarkable size has earned it the moniker “Super Transporter.” However, it is commonly referred to as the Beluga due to its striking resemblance to the majestic beluga whale.
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Reddit - r/aviation
The NASA Super Guppy
Aero Spacelines introduced the pioneering Super Guppy as their inaugural aircraft, primarily intended for cargo transport. It served as the successor to the Pregnant Guppy. Although the Super Guppy has been succeeded by the Airbus Beluga, a few of them remain operational. Over the years, five distinct Guppy variations were constructed, each bearing the title of “Super Guppy” based on their respective sizes.
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Wikimedia Commons CC BY SA.20 - Mike Fisher
The M109A7
The M109A6 Paladin had been the mainstay of the US Army Armored Brigade Combat Team (ABCT) for a considerable period. Nevertheless, an upgrade became necessary, leading BAE Systems to undertake the task of modernizing this aging model. Following various adjustments, the upgraded M109A7 was unveiled, featuring enhanced technology, a design better suited for combat, and a revamped chassis. Additionally, this upgrade incorporates a new digital suite, improving its usability in combat situations.
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Reddit- r/tankporn
AAV7
The AAV7 is a formidable marine assault vehicle that exhibits remarkable prowess in both land and sea domains. Designed for marine operations, this vehicle possesses the capability to effectively traverse and conquer diverse terrains. Accommodating a maximum of 25 soldiers, it necessitates a crew of three individuals for operation. While its speed is capped at 20 miles per hour in aquatic environments, its land performance is extraordinary, enabling speeds of up to 300 miles per hour. Additionally, the AAV7 is armed with impressive weaponry, including a 25 mm Bushmaster cannon and a 40 mm grenade launcher.
Source:
Reddit - r/tankporn
P-19R Aircraft Firefighter
The P-19R Aircraft Firefighter stands alone as the military’s sole choice for rescue operations. This exceptionally potent vehicle possesses the capacity to transport 130 gallons of foam agent in addition to 1,000 gallons of water. Despite its remarkable specifications, Oshkosh Defense took the initiative to develop an upgraded iteration in 2016, ushering in the next generation of this remarkable vehicle. When faced with the challenging task of rescuing a downed aircraft within hostile territory, this vehicle emerges as the ultimate solution, offering unparalleled effectiveness.
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Wikimedia Commons - OshKosh Defense
The Humvee
No compilation of superior military vehicles can ever be considered comprehensive without the inclusion of the esteemed Humvee. This remarkable vehicle has stood the test of time, serving as a testament to its enduring legacy. Notably, the Humvee has had a distinguished history as both a consumer and military vehicle, marking its significance within the automotive industry. While the consumer version of the Humvee differed in various aspects, such as weaponry, protective armor, and the formidable 6.5-liter diesel engine, its military counterpart went even further by equipping itself with a versatile four-wheel drive system, enabling unparalleled maneuverability across diverse terrains. The Humvee’s exceptional attributes have solidified its position as an indispensable and highly revered military vehicle.
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Wikimedia Commons - Public Domain
Autonomous Terramax
Upon its initial introduction, the Autonomous Terramax failed to garner significant recognition amidst Google’s dominance with their self-driving car. However, Oshkosh diligently ventured into the realm of creating a vehicle that would prioritize the safety of deployed soldiers. The essence of this vehicle’s concept lies in the imperative of minimizing soldiers’ exposure to danger whenever possible. While the current iteration proves effective, there remains room for further enhancements and upgrades to elevate its performance even further.
Source:
Twitter - @JonHawkes275
The QinetiQ Rider
Despite its unassuming appearance, the QinetiQ Raider conceals a multitude of remarkable capabilities. This exceptionally versatile vehicle possesses the unique ability to be remotely controlled from a distance of 1000 yards. Its primary purpose is to identify and neutralize improvised explosive devices (IEDs), ensuring the safety of deployed soldiers. The design of the Raider 1 drew inspiration from the Polaris MVRS700, incorporating specialized clearance tools and enhanced engineer support to facilitate swift evacuations when necessary.
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YouTube Screenshot - Qinietiq US
M9 Armored Combat Earthmover
Regarded as an unstoppable force in motion, the Armored Combat Earthmover (ACE) possesses an unwavering reputation that has solidified its status as a cornerstone vehicle within the military. This enduring presence shows no signs of waning anytime soon. The ACE vehicle serves a multitude of indispensable functions, including clearing river banks, obliterating obstacles, providing cover for allied soldiers, and safeguarding personnel during the construction and demolition of barriers. With its versatile capabilities, the ACE proves to be an invaluable asset in various military operations.
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Wikimedia Commons - Public Domain
M142 HIMARS
The M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) stands as a wheel-mounted rocket launcher, showcasing remarkable mobility. This agile and adaptable mobile rocket launcher has the capability to launch six M270 rockets, reaching an impressive distance of 186 miles, or a single MGM-140 ATACMS. Astoundingly, the HIMARS exhibits a top speed surpassing 50 miles per hour, and its overall travel range spans an extensive 300 miles. Notably, this formidable vehicle was developed by Lockheed Martin, a testament to their expertise in the field.
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Wikimedia Commons - Public Domain
The Camel MRAP
The “Concept for Advanced Military Explosion Mitigating Land Vehicle,” or CAMEL, represents an innovative 8×8 concept vehicle crafted by Detroit Arsenal, showcasing a glimpse into the future of armed vehicles. Seizing the opportunity to unveil their cutting-edge technology, the defense company meticulously addressed and rectified the vehicle’s shortcomings observed in recent campaigns. As a result, the CAMEL now boasts a remarkable feature—a V-shaped base—offering an enhanced and safer defense mechanism against the inescapable threat of improvised explosive devices (IEDs). This formidable design evolution demonstrates Detroit Arsenal’s commitment to advancing the protection and capabilities of military vehicles.
Source:
Twitter - @defencedecode
The M88A2 Hercules
With its unparalleled power, this military vehicle has played a pivotal role in numerous prominent campaigns. The M88A2 was meticulously engineered to possess a weight of 35 tons, coupled with an extraordinary constant pull capability of 70 tons. Propelled by a formidable 1,050-horsepower engine, this vehicle can achieve a maximum speed of 30 miles per hour. Notably, the M88A2 gained significant acclaim for its involvement in the iconic moment of dismantling a statue of a foreign dictator. The indomitable strength and versatility of the M88A2 make it an indispensable asset in military operations.
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Wikimedia Commons CC BY-SA 2.0 - mark6mauno
The Cougar MRAP
The Cougar exemplifies a military vehicle designed to withstand the perils of mines and ambushes, boasting exceptional levels of protection. Among its variants, the 6×6 model stands as the pinnacle of capability. This Mine-Resistant, Ambush-Protected (MRAP) vehicle possesses the capacity to withstand rocket-launched grenade fire, fortified by the inclusion of an automatic grenade launcher. Powering the 6×6 Cougar is a robust C-7 diesel engine, generating an impressive 350 horsepower and delivering 860 pounds of torque. With a generous fuel capacity, the Cougar boasts an extensive range of 600 miles, ensuring sustained operational capabilities.
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Wikimedia Commons - Public Domain
LVSR MKR15
The LVSR MKR15, a formidable 10×10 support vehicle, stands as the optimal selection for marine operations. Despite popular assumptions, its role extends far beyond mere debris removal. The LVSR Wrecker serves as a dedicated rescue vehicle, specifically designed to extricate stranded vehicles from challenging terrains such as sand, snow, mud, and more. Remarkably, this vehicle exhibits an impressive towing capacity of up to 96,000 pounds, enabling it to effortlessly pull vehicles to safety. With its unwavering strength and rescue capabilities, the LVSR Wrecker proves indispensable in marine operations.
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Wikimedia Commons - Oshkosh Defense
The M1A2
The introduction of a military tank into the world involves an intricate series of processes encompassing construction, testing, and approval. During the 1980s, the arrival of the M1A1 marked a significant milestone, as it swiftly garnered recognition as one of the finest military tanks of its time. However, its reign was soon eclipsed by the emergence of the M1A2. While sharing a common framework with the M1A1, the M1A2 implemented depleted uranium armor to provide enhanced protection. This upgrade served to fortify the tank’s defensive capabilities, reinforcing its standing as a formidable force on the battlefield.
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Wikimedia Commons - Public Domain
Global HET
In the realm of tank transportation, not all tanks are equipped with sufficiently large fuel tanks to facilitate long-distance travel. Consequently, when the military requires the relocation of an assault tank with limited range capabilities to a distant location, they rely on the Global Heavy Equipment Transporter. This robust military vehicle boasts a formidable power of 700 horsepower, driven by a reliable Caterpillar C18 engine. With an impressive payload capacity of up to 72 tons, the Global Heavy Equipment Transporter effectively manages its crucial task, ensuring the seamless transportation of heavy-duty military assets.
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Wikimedia Commons - Public Domain
Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit
The B-2 Spirit bomber, with its stealth design, is the epitome of modern military aviation. It is the most expensive and technologically advanced aircraft, costing approximately $2 billion per unit. Its cutting-edge features and capabilities solidify its status as a formidable asset in military aviation.
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Wikimedia Commons - Public Domain
M2 Bradley
The M2 Bradley is a fully equipped combat tank, capable of reaching speeds of up to 35 miles per hour and accommodating ten soldiers. Armed with armor-piercing missiles, a 22mm Bushmaster cannon, and propelled by a 600-horsepower engine, it exemplifies formidable firepower. In rescue missions, the M2 Bradley emerges as the ideal choice for ensuring successful operations.
Source:
Wikimedia Commons - Public Domain
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