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AM General Reinvents Iconic HUMVEE to Secure its Future Vision with Enhanced Mobility and Versatility.
AM General, a manufacturer of light tactical vehicles and military mobility systems, is presenting its vision for the future of the HUMVEE platform at the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Global Force Symposium & Exposition, held from March 25 to 27 at the Von Braun Convention Center in Huntsville, Alabama. As this platform marks forty years of production, the company highlights a series of innovations aimed at enhancing passenger safety, improving vehicle mobility, and increasing operational versatility across various mission profiles. With these developments, AM General seeks to ensure the continued relevance of the HUMVEE in response to evolving military requirements and increasingly complex threats.
The HUMVEE 4-CT features IMMI’s MARS restraint system, a Kongsberg SR4 remote weapon station, and Axon’s DedroneOnTheMove counter-drone system, enhancing protection and adaptability to modern threats (Picture source: AM General)
Jim Cannon, President and CEO of AM General, emphasizes the necessity of continuous improvement in military platforms, a principle embodied in the Future Driven HUMVEE concept. He highlights the integration of an advanced restraint system designed to improve soldier safety in case of an accident or attack while enhancing the vehicle’s overall performance in operational environments.
At the core of this vision is HUMVEE 4-CT, presented at the event with a range of upgrades showcasing the program's technological advancements. The vehicle is equipped with the MARS (MBrace and RollTek System) restraint system, developed by IMMI, a global leader in safety solutions. This system establishes new standards in military vehicle occupant protection, significantly reducing the risk of severe injuries in the event of rollovers or high-impact collisions. Additionally, the vehicle features a Kongsberg Protector SR4 remote weapon station, providing enhanced remote engagement capabilities, and an Axon DedroneOnTheMove counter-drone system, designed to detect and neutralize aerial threats at close range. These integrated systems reflect AM General’s approach to adapting the HUMVEE platform to modern operational challenges, where force protection and countering emerging threats remain key priorities.
The HUMVEE 4-CT is a modular tactical vehicle designed for command and control, armed patrol, and logistics transport missions, with a four-soldier capacity. Its reinforced design enables it to operate in challenging terrain, supported by optimized ground clearance, high approach and departure angles, and enhanced climbing capabilities. The vehicle is equipped with 37 x 12.5R-16.5 all-terrain tires, ensuring traction across various surfaces, and features an integrated amphibious fording system, with an optional kit for increased water-crossing capability.
In terms of performance, the HUMVEE 4-CT is powered by a 6.5-liter turbocharged V8 diesel engine, producing 190 horsepower and 515 N·m of torque at 1,700 rpm. It is coupled with a four-speed automatic transmission and a two-speed transfer case (high: 1:1, low: 2.72:1). The drivetrain includes front and rear hypoid differentials with a 3.08:1 ratio, ensuring effective power distribution and optimized traction on rough terrain. The 95-liter fuel tank allows for an extended operational range suitable for long missions.
Regarding protection and armament, the HUMVEE 4-CT can be configured based on operational needs. It is designed to accommodate scalable armor kits, increasing ballistic and blast protection. It can also be equipped with a Gunner’s Protection Kit (GPK) and a manual turret or a remote weapon station, which enhances operational safety while providing increased firepower. The vehicle's architecture allows for the integration of advanced communication systems and electronic warfare equipment, offering adaptability for modern battlefield requirements.
The HUMVEE 4-CT is available in different configurations depending on operational requirements. In the United States, the gross vehicle weight (GVW) is 12,100 lb (5,488 kg), with a payload capacity of 4,950 lb (2,245 kg) for the base model. The international version has a GVW of 13,500 lb (6,124 kg) but a reduced payload capacity of 3,450 lb (1,565 kg). This modularity allows the vehicle to be tailored to the specific needs of various armed forces while accounting for transportation constraints and regional regulations.
By showcasing the HUMVEE 4-CT at AUSA Global Force, AM General reaffirms its commitment to innovation and modernization in the light tactical vehicle sector. While the HUMVEE has been widely deployed across operational theaters over the past four decades, its evolution continues in response to contemporary military challenges. With a focus on troop protection, defense against emerging threats, and operational flexibility, the company ensures that the HUMVEE remains a strategic asset for armed forces in the years ahead.