New Humvee variant reinforces Serbia reconnaissance capabilities.

A new reconnaissance variant of the Humvee has been revealed at the Partner 2023 exhibition in Serbia, as part of the development of the Serbian defense industry's capabilities. The initiative is led by the Military Technical Institute (VTI), Serbia's premier military research institution, and introduces a reconnaissance-focused Humvee variant equipped with advanced features, such as an electro-optic multisensor reconnaissance platform and a retractable mast system. This new variant, which is designed to enhance the country's capabilities in this domain, is also armed with a 12.7mm machine gun.
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This new reconnaissance variant of the well-known Humvee is equipped with an electro-optic multisensor reconnaissance platform and a retractable mast system (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The Military Technical Institute, operating under the Ministry of Defense, plays a crucial role in advancing Serbia's technological capabilities within the defense sector. Recognized as a scientific and research institution, VTI has unveiled a new variant of the Humvee, combining basic armor with a remote-controlled weapon station (RCWS). Additionally, an optional multisensor reconnaissance platform can be integrated into the vehicle's rear side using a telescopic mast.

The electro-optic multisensor reconnaissance platform, when optionally integrated, adds further capabilities to the vehicle. It includes a range of sensors such as a cooled thermal camera, a low-light TV camera, and a laser rangefinder. The thermal camera offers detection ranges of up to 13 km for day/night and 2.4 km for identification purposes. The laser rangefinder operates at an eye-safe wavelength and has a range of 20 km. The telescopic mast can reach a height of 4 meters, providing elevated vantage points for reconnaissance. The reconnaissance platform has a rapid transition time of just five minutes to be fully operational.

The RCWS is equipped with a 12.7 mm machine gun, providing firepower to the vehicle. With a crew capacity of four members and radio equipment comprising HF and VHF radio stations, the Humvee is well-equipped for reconnaissance missions. 

This development follows a recent shipment of 66 Humvee light armored vehicles to the Serbian Army. These vehicles were procured through a direct contract with AM General and are part of an order for a total of 118 Humvees. Currently stationed at the Pančevo barracks, these versatile vehicles are intended for various purposes, including potential deployment in international peacekeeping missions.

The telescopic mast can reach a height of 4 meters, providing elevated vantage points for reconnaissance (Picture source: Army Recognition)

It's important to note that this shipment differs from previous donations made by the United States to Serbia. In 2012 and 2017, the USA donated a total of 40 Humvees to the Serbian Army, primarily for use by the Special Brigade in Pančevo and the 31st Infantry Battalion in Zaječar. Serbia now plans to equip these newly acquired Humvees with devices from domestic military factories, with the possibility of fitting them with a 12.7 mm machine gun or an automatic grenade launcher on a universal mount.

The history of Humvees in Serbia dates back to the 1990s when the now-disbanded Special Operations Unit (JSO) of the Department of State Security first acquired civilian versions of the Hummer. These vehicles were subsequently modified with armor and improvised weaponry, showcasing their adaptability and utility.

The Humvee, officially known as the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV), has been a staple of the U.S. military's ground fleet since its introduction in 1984. Manufactured by AM General, over 281,000 units have been produced, and its popularity extends globally, with allied forces worldwide adopting it for military operations. Notably, the Oshkosh L-ATV was selected in 2015 to replace the Humvee in front-line service under the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) program.

The strength of the Humvee lies in its adaptability, as it can be equipped with various specialized kits and equipment, enabling it to fulfill roles such as troop transport, command and control vehicle, medical evacuation unit, and armament carriers. Some variants even feature heavy machine guns, automatic grenade launchers, or anti-tank missile launchers. The Humvee is powered by various engine options, including diesel and gasoline variants, offering around 190 horsepower and 515 Nm of torque, depending on the model. With a top speed of 113 km/h under optimal conditions, the Humvee is versatile and agile in various terrains.

This new reconnaissance variant of the well-known Humvee is armed with a 12.7mm machine gun integrated into a remote-controlled weapon station (Picture source: Army Recognition)