What Did the Military Use Before Humvees?

Before the Humvee, a multitude of vehicles had served the military's transport and tactical needs. From the iconic Jeep to custom off-the-shelf pickups and dune buggies, the evolution of military transport has been a fascinating journey over the years. Let's dive into the history and explore what the military used before the Humvee.

The First Line of Defense: Jeeps

Post-World War II, the Jeep became the de facto standard for vehicle transport in the U.S. military. Small, lightweight, and designed for off-road mobility, the Jeep was a practical choice for tactical maneuvers and logistical support. These vehicles had a seating capacity of four, including the driver, and their simplicity and reliability made them indispensable in various war zones, such as Korea and Vietnam.

Evolution of the Jeep

For instance, the M38A3 and M151A1 models were widely used during the Korean War and Vietnam War, respectively. The M151A1 had independent rear suspension, which made it more durable but also more prone to rolling over if driven recklessly. It was said that drivers needed additional training and exams if they were to operate this vehicle responsibly.

The choice of these older models persisted well into the 1980s. Even then, these Jeeps were still in use due to their simplicity and effectiveness in various terrains. It's noteworthy that the term "Jeep" referred to these military vehicles, quite different from today's civilian Jeep models.

Commercial Vehicles and Custom Modifications

For more administrative tasks, the military utilized Commercial Utility Cargo Vehicles (CUCVs), which were essentially custom-camouflaged Chevrolet Blazer SUVs. These vehicles were equipped with a 24-volt electrical system to fit slave cables and military radios, making them useful for communication and support tasks.

For more tactical needs, the M-151 'Jeep' was the primary vehicle. General Purpose Truck 1/4 ton versions were often used with roll cages and nets for added safety. Other commercial off-the-shelf pick-up trucks and SUVs were also purchased in the 1970s, fulfilling various roles on the battlefield and beyond.

The Transition to HMMWVs

The High Mobility Multi-Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV), or Humvee, was introduced in the late 1980s to replace the old Jeeps and other commercial vehicles. However, the transition was not immediate. Many units continued to use Jeeps and CUCVs for several years, even until fairly recently.

Experimental Vehicles

In the 1980s, the military experimented with armed dune buggies as "fast attack vehicles." These were primarily developed and used by Special Operations Command (SOCOM) for desert operations. While these vehicles were less conventional, they demonstrated the military's willingness to consider unconventional options for specialized tasks.

Conclusion

The use of various vehicles through the decades clearly highlights the military's adaptability and the ever-changing landscape of war and transportation. From the iconic Jeep to the versatile HMMWV and experimental vehicles like the armed dune buggies, the military has continually evolved its methods to meet its needs.