Synopsis
The ultimate modeler’s resource filled with the history, photographs and builds of this American military legend whose service stretches from the plains of Germany to the deserts of the Gulf.
With its characteristic wide track, low silhouette and its distinctively deep exhaust note the Humvee sets itself apart from the range of light utility trucks it replaced. Fully air-portable, the Humvee features an aluminum body seated on a steel ladder chassis, powered by a 190hp V8 engine.
Introduced into service in 1985, the Humvee remained pretty much unnoticed until its baptism of fire during the invasion of Panama in Operation Just Cause. It wasn’t until almost a year later, in Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm that the Humvee really came into the public eye.
As a result of its newly found fame its manufacturer, American Motors General, started to produce a civilized version for public consumption, with sales and profile boosted by Hollywood patronage. At the same time the Humvee continued to serve in some of the most dangerous US operations undertaken to date. From the streets of Mogadishu to the Balkans, the Humvee developed into a vehicle far removed from its original design intentions.
With some 17 variants now in service, from the basic troop carrier to the awesome Avenger Anti-Aircraft system, this Humvee LandCraft title provides the modeler with a rich vein of inspirations and subject.
This title looks at the process behind the design and development of the Humvee and how American Motors General were able to fulfill a complex design brief to deliver a single vehicle that was able to replace a host of in-service vehicles. This title will chart how the Humvee grew from a light utility truck into a versatile platform whose modesty hides its potential.
With its specially designed track, impressive ground clearance, waterproofed electronics and ability to carry a one ton load, the first Humvees were light years ahead of the vehicles they replaced. With its unique suspension and transmission systems to its unique engine arrangement this 4x4 is capable of feats normally only afforded to tracked vehicles.
With some 17 versions in US service the Humvee fulfills its traditional role as cargo and troop carrier as well as special-weapons platform, ambulances, Direct Air Support vehicles and communications shelter vehicles.
After 35 years of service the Humvee has changed from soft skinned run-about to a lightly armored force protection asset. Fitted with a larger engine, interchangeable armor, specially designed escape windows and a unique blast chimney, the Humvee’s story is indeed proof that development of military vehicles never stops.
For the modeler there is nothing more important than the little things and this image-rich section of LandCrafts’ Humvee title delivers the goods. Filled with crisp images that chart the Humvee’s development, combined with informative accompanying text, forms an enviable visual guide for the enthusiast and modeler alike.
About the Author
Ben, a RAF veteran, is an avid modeller and writer of military themes, specialising in 20th century subjects. Ben’s work has been featured in previous Pen & Sword titles and has, on occasion, won prizes.
His interest in British armour was cemented by a visit to the Kings Royal Hussars in the early 90s as an undergraduate in the Territorial Army. Upon graduation Ben joined the RAF, where he served for five years, clocking up the air miles in a range of RAF transport aircraft including the VC10 and C17.
It was while serving with the RAF that his first foray into writing occurred, reporting on his experiences of a Kosovo/FYROM tour for an in-service trade magazine. On leaving the RAF Ben continued to develop his writing and research skills working within the third sector and NHS researching military and veteran subculture. Some of this work would be used to shape key government veteran policies.
Using this experience he decided to strike out and write about a range of field sports topics. This included researching and writing numerous pieces, from visiting the magnificent Horses and Gunners of Kings Troop, RHA, to reviewing the sometimes questionable behaviour of gun dogs. In 2018 Ben successfully completed the British Guild of Agricultural Journalists John Deere Training programme, finishing as an Honour Roll Student. The highlight of the course was to be let loose with a 26 tonne quad track tractor.
Ben is also a visual designer with a love of fashion items and has designed clothing and accessories for Help for Heroes.
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