Do Military Vehicles Like Humvees Have Airbags?

Military vehicles, specifically High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles (HMMWVs), commonly known as Humvees, are designed for rugged, off-road conditions and combat environments. Unlike civilian vehicles, these vehicles do not typically come equipped with airbags. This article explores the reasons behind this absence and delves into the unique design and functionality of the Humvee, as experienced by a former field service representative.

The Design Philosophy of Humvees

(Introduction to the design philosophy of military vehicles, focusing on the Humvee)

Military vehicles such as the HMMWV (High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle) are designed to withstand harsh conditions, including rough terrain, hostile environments, and even attacks such as IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices). While civilian vehicles prioritize safety features like airbags, the priorities for military vehicles are different. The Humvee, in particular, is engineered to provide maximum protection and versatility in combat situations.

Why Do Humvees Not Have Airbags?

Airbags Harm Injuries in Combat Situations

Airbags are designed to protect against front-end collisions in civilian vehicles. However, in combat environments, where the vehicle can be hit from multiple directions and types of attacks, airbags can themselves cause injuries. Fans of the TV series Band of Brothers may recall a scene where the crew of a Humvee dodged almost immediately after deploying their airbags, as there was a concern of shrapnel injury.

Armor and Safety Features Over Civilian Standards

The primary focus in designing military vehicles is on providing armor and safety features that are appropriate for combat situations. This includes features such as bullet-resistant panels, reinforced structures, and advanced communication systems. These features prioritize protection against direct threats and minimize the risk of injury in adverse conditions.

Complexity and Cost

(Discussion on the complexity and cost involved in integrating airbags into military vehicles)

Retrofitting airbags into military vehicles would add significant complexity and cost. The mechanism for airbags requires space inside the vehicle, which is often at a premium in military vehicles. Airbags also need regular maintenance and can be cumbersome to deploy and reinstall, which could be a disadvantage in a combat environment where quick action is crucial.

Off-Road Capabilities and Durability

(Explanation of the off-road capabilities and durability of the Humvee)

The Humvee is designed to handle a wide range of terrains, including gravel, mud, and even desert conditions. The vehicle's rugged design ensures it can navigate through difficult terrains with minimal damage. The durability of the vehicle is paramount in military operations, as breakdowns and casualties can be extremely costly. Integrating complex features like airbags would potentially reduce this durability and reliability.

Exceptions and Advanced Safety Features

(Discussion on newer military vehicles and advanced safety features)

While traditional Humvees do not typically come equipped with airbags, newer military vehicles may incorporate advanced safety features. However, these advanced features are often tailored to specific missions and environments, and airbags may not be standard. Advances in technology, such as proximity sensors and electronic stability control, are becoming more prevalent in military vehicles. Nonetheless, the core design philosophy of military vehicles remains focused on providing protection and functionality for combat circumstances.

The Humvee Experience from a Field Service Representative

(First-person narrative of a former field service representative for AM General, the manufacturer of HMMWVs from 1998 to 2008)

(Introduction to the personal experience of a field service representative)

As a Field Service Representative for AM General, the manufacturer of the HMMWV from 1998 to 2008, I had the opportunity to work on a multitude of Humvees from 1992 until 2019. One of the most striking aspects of the HMMWV is its versatility. It could perform a wide range of tasks, from dragging a 40-foot container across pavement, to hauling 15 troops plus driver and officer, and even towing a 105mm Howitzer.

(Details on the design and functionality)

The steering wheel, despite its powerful power steering, is small and reminiscent of a toy, with only a small button for the horn. The vehicle’s design ensures it can handle various challenges, from climbing a 22-inch vertical step to fording a 5-foot deep stream with snorkeling kits. This design was developed under the stringent requirements of TACOM, the Tank Automotive Armaments Command located in poshy offices in Detroit. Despite their intentions, these civilians often lacked a deep understanding of the needs of soldiers in the field.

(Description of modifications and increases in weight and complexity)

The decision to start adding armor to HMMWVs in 2003, in response to the IEDs in Iraq, was a significant step. However, this armor came from O’Gara Hess Eisenhart, a company known more for its work with Colombian drug lords and heads of state. These modifications drastically increased the vehicle’s weight, requiring $15,000 rolling off the factory floor. This included not only armor but also the addition of air conditioning, making the vehicle even more cumbersome.

(Discussion on the limitations and drawbacks of the modifications)

With the added weight and complexity, there were numerous challenges. I once had to work with a few O’Gara Hess guys for five years, primarily addressing their add-on air conditioning systems on brand new trucks with only five miles on them. These AC systems didn’t work, the doors weighed 600 pounds each, and the vehicle had a total weight of 15,000 pounds. There was simply no space for airbags, which would have further increased the overall weight and complexity of the vehicle.

Conclusion

(Final summary on the unique characteristics and design philosophy of Humvees, and the broader implications)

The Humvee is a testament to the unique design philosophy of military vehicles, prioritizing durability, versatility, and combat readiness over the civilian safety standards associated with airbags. While advanced safety features continue to evolve, the primary focus remains on ensuring soldiers can perform their duties effectively and safely in a variety of environments. The personal experience of a field service representative underscores the complex and multifaceted nature of such vehicles, highlighting the trade-offs between innovation and practicality in military vehicle design.