The HMMVV is the US military's current multi-purpose vehicle. Designed as a replacement for the M-151 series of jeeps, the HMMWV is a tough, adaptable chassis that can be airdropped or slung underneath all of the military's current utility helicopters. It can ford water up to 60 inches deep (With a special kit; 30' without) and has a 16" ground clearance despite its low sillouette. Because of this low sillouette the HMMWV is a very stable vehicle and is hard to roll over

It is powered by a high-performance deisel engine attached to a manual transmission powering four all-wheel drive tires that are mounted in such a way as to give the vehicle its excellent ground clearance. Due to the powerful engine and good suspension the HMMWV has a cargo capacity of nearly 2,400 lbs. Weapons can be mounted on the roof of most of the vehicles,consisting of either the M2 .50 Cal heavy machine gun, Mk19 grenade launcher, and M-60 or M-240 light machine guns.

There are many varieties of the HMMWV, ranging from the basic cargo varient and anti-armor TOW equipped to an air-defense outfitted vehicle. A basic armored version was introduced after the gulf war and saw action with the Rangers in Somolia. There are also many upgrades that can be added, such as central tire inflation, extra tire and jerry can (water) mounts, and a skidplate for the driveline to prevent damage from tall obstacles.

The DMV (Desert Mobility Vehicle) is the Special Forces' version of the HMMWV and is tailored for long patrols in desert conditions. Extra fuel and oil filters are installed to prevent damage from fine sand and dust. The DMV was first deployed during Operation Desert Storm and was used by Army Special Forces for patrols along the Saudi borders with Iraq and Kuwait as well as some missions behind Iraqi lines in Kuwait.

LINKS
AM General Military
HMMWV Characteristics
FAS Link
HMMWV Passengers Survive Explosion

SPECS:
Max Speed: 65 mph
Max Load: 2375 lbs
Length (Standard) : 15.5' (185.8")
Height: 6' (72")
Width: 7'1" (85")
Weight: Curb-5326 lbs, GVW-7700 lbs
Configuration: 4 x 4
Ground Clearance: 1'4" (16.1")
Wheelbase: 10'9" (129.5")
Track: 71.6 in
Suspension: 4 wheel independent double A-arm, coil spring
Fuel capacity: 25 gal