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.