When we think of military vehicles, iconic tanks and armored cars often come to mind, but trucks have been the backbone of military logistics for decades. Many of these workhorses are less well-known, yet they played crucial roles in transporting troops, equipment, and supplies. In this article, we’ll explore 20 underrated military trucks that have quietly made their mark in military history.
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AEC Matador
The AEC Matador was a reliable 4×4 artillery tractor used by British forces during World War II. Known for its robust design, it was used to tow heavy artillery, including the 5.5-inch medium guns. The Matador was powered by a 7.7-liter AEC engine, providing excellent off-road capabilities. Its ability to navigate rough terrains made it a crucial vehicle for transporting equipment in challenging battlefield environments, but it often goes unnoticed in discussions of wartime logistics.
Diamond T 4-ton Truck
The Diamond T 4-ton truck was a heavy-duty workhorse for the Allies during World War II, renowned for its durability and power. It was primarily used to tow tank transporters and for general cargo duties. Powered by a Hercules RXC engine, the truck could handle heavy loads and tough conditions with ease. Despite its vital role, it’s often overshadowed by other military vehicles, but its contribution to moving heavy artillery and tanks was invaluable.
Morris C8 Field Artillery Tractor
The Morris C8, or Quad, was an artillery tractor used by British and Commonwealth forces during World War II. Its distinctive, compact design allowed it to transport and deploy artillery in various terrains. With its 4×4 capability and powerful engine, the Morris C8 was integral in moving field guns such as the 25-pounder, yet it remains relatively unknown compared to other British military vehicles.
Scammell Pioneer
The Scammell Pioneer was a British 6×4 heavy recovery vehicle, widely used during World War II. It was equipped with a powerful 6-cylinder Gardner diesel engine and a winch capable of recovering broken-down tanks and heavy vehicles. Its unique role in battlefield recovery and towing heavy artillery makes it an underrated gem, often overshadowed by combat vehicles despite its significant contributions.
Tatra 815
The Tatra 815 is a Czech-designed military truck that stands out for its ruggedness and adaptability. Its unique chassis design, featuring a central tube and independent swinging half-axles, provides excellent off-road mobility. Powered by a Tatra air-cooled V12 engine, the truck is capable of handling extreme terrains, making it a reliable choice in various military operations, but it’s rarely recognized outside of military circles.
Mercedes-Benz L4500A
The Mercedes-Benz L4500A was a 4.5-ton 4×4 truck used by German forces during World War II. Known for its reliability and ability to traverse difficult terrain, it was utilized for transporting goods, troops, and heavy equipment. The truck’s powerful 6-cylinder diesel engine and its all-wheel-drive configuration allowed it to operate effectively in rugged conditions, but it often gets overshadowed by more famous military vehicles.
GMC CCKW 2.5-ton 6×6
Known as the “Deuce and a Half,” the GMC CCKW was a backbone of Allied logistics during World War II. This 6×6 truck was highly versatile, used for transporting troops, supplies, and equipment across all theaters of war. Its reliable 270-cubic-inch engine and 10-speed transmission made it capable of handling rough terrain, yet it is often underappreciated compared to more specialized military vehicles.
Thornycroft Nubian
The Thornycroft Nubian was a 4×4 heavy-duty truck used by the British military for towing and recovery purposes. It featured a high ground clearance and robust suspension, making it suitable for off-road operations. Powered by a powerful diesel engine, it was used primarily for towing anti-aircraft guns and other heavy equipment, but it remains a lesser-known piece of British military history.
ZIL-131
The ZIL-131 was a Soviet 3.5-ton 6×6 military truck, designed for rugged off-road use. Its V8 engine provided substantial power, and it was commonly used for troop transport, as well as a platform for rocket launchers. Despite its significant role in various Cold War-era conflicts, it doesn’t receive the same attention as other Soviet military vehicles.
Mack NR
The Mack NR series was a range of 10-ton 6×4 trucks used by the Allies during World War II, mainly for transporting cargo. With its robust construction and powerful engine, it was ideal for long-distance hauling in challenging environments. The NR series was crucial in sustaining supply lines but often flies under the radar in discussions about military logistics.
Praga V3S
The Praga V3S was a Czechoslovakian all-terrain military truck, widely regarded for its reliability and ability to operate in harsh environments. Its 6×6 configuration and air-cooled diesel engine made it a versatile vehicle for transporting supplies and troops. Despite its extensive use in Warsaw Pact countries, it remains relatively unknown outside of Eastern Europe.
Iveco LMV
The Iveco LMV (Light Multirole Vehicle) is an Italian-designed military truck known for its modularity and protection. Used in various NATO operations, it features a diesel engine and can be configured for different roles, from troop transport to medical evacuation. Despite its advanced technology and versatility, it’s often overlooked in discussions of modern military vehicles.
REO M35
The REO M35, known as the “Deuce and a Half,” was a 2.5-ton 6×6 truck used by the U.S. military for decades. Its multifaceted design allowed it to serve as a cargo transporter, troop carrier, and even a platform for mobile workshops. Despite its long service life and widespread use, it’s often overshadowed by more combat-oriented vehicles.
Steyr 12M18
The Steyr 12M18 is an Austrian military truck designed for all-terrain capability and versatility. Powered by a 6-cylinder turbocharged engine, it can handle up to 5 tons of cargo. Its excellent off-road performance and durability make it a reliable choice for military logistics, but it remains underappreciated compared to larger, more iconic military vehicles.
Volvo TL22
The Volvo TL22 was a Swedish military truck designed for harsh climates and rough terrain. Equipped with a powerful diesel engine and a 6×6 configuration, it was used primarily for troop transport and towing artillery. Despite its ruggedness and reliability, the TL22 is often forgotten in the annals of military history.
DAF YA-126
The DAF YA-126 was a lightweight 4×4 military truck used by the Dutch armed forces. Known for its simplicity and reliability, it was primarily used for transporting troops and equipment. Its rugged design allowed it to perform well in off-road conditions, but it remains relatively unknown outside of the Netherlands.
KRAZ-255
The KRAZ-255 is a Soviet-era heavy truck designed for extreme off-road conditions. Powered by a V8 diesel engine, this 6×6 truck was used for transporting large loads, including military equipment and supplies. Its ability to handle tough terrains in remote areas made it invaluable, but it is often overshadowed by more modern military vehicles.
Bedford QL
The Bedford QL was a British 3-ton 4×4 truck used extensively during World War II. With a 6-cylinder engine and strong off-road capabilities, it was a versatile vehicle for transporting troops, cargo, and artillery. Despite its widespread use, the QL is often overlooked in discussions of British military vehicles.
Unimog S404
The Unimog S404 is a German 4×4 utility vehicle known for its extreme off-road capabilities. It was used by several military forces for a wide range of roles, including troop transport and cargo hauling. Its flexible chassis and reliable engine made it a go-to vehicle for tough terrains, yet it remains underappreciated in the wider scope of military vehicle history.
Pegaso 3055
The Pegaso 3055 was a Spanish military truck known for its strength and durability. With a 4×4 configuration and powerful diesel engine, it was used for transporting troops and heavy equipment across rough terrains. Despite its reliability, the Pegaso 3055 remains one of the lesser-known military trucks outside of Spain.
This article originally appeared in MyCarMakesNoise.
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