Why the Oshkosh M-ATV is a Leading Tactical Vehicle

The Oshkosh M-ATV, engineered by the Oshkosh Corporation as part of the MRAP All Terrain Vehicle (M-ATV) program, is a highly specialized mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicle. This innovative platform was developed to succeed the M1114 HMMWV, commonly known as the Humvee, in battlefield roles requiring enhanced protection and versatility.

The M ATV offers the same formidable defense capabilities as earlier, larger MRAP models, but with a crucial improvement: significantly improved mobility. This allows the vehicle to perform in rugged, off-road environments where traditional MRAPs would struggle, making it an essential asset for modern military operations.

Oshkosh M-ATV Production

In July 2009, the first batch of 46 M-ATVs (Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected All-Terrain Vehicles) were delivered, and by November of that same year, the 1,000th vehicle had been handed over.

Oshkosh Defense, responsible for manufacturing these vehicles, surpassed its contractual goal by producing 1,000 M-ATVs per month ahead of schedule, meeting this milestone by December 2009.

In total, 8,722 M-ATVs were delivered across various branches of the U.S. military, including the U.S. Army, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Special Operations Command (SOCOM). The vehicles were produced in two major variants.

The base model, known as the M1240, was equipped with a manned turret featuring the Objective Gunner Protection Kit (OGPK). Another key variant, the M1277, featured the M153 CROWS (Common Remotely Operated Weapon Station), a remote-controlled weapon system.

As part of the U.S. government’s broader strategy to reduce its MRAP (Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected) fleet, about 80% of the M-ATV inventory, approximately 7,000 vehicles, will be retained. Of these, 5,651 will be assigned to the U.S. Army, including 250 for SOCOM.

To standardize and refurbish the retained fleet, Oshkosh’s Wisconsin facility, and the Red River Army Depot began resetting the vehicles to a common build standard.

In August 2014, Oshkosh was awarded an initial contract to reset 500 M-ATVs. The total value of these contracts exceeded $77 million, with deliveries scheduled through September 2015.

The reset process involves upgrading the vehicles to the Low Rate Initial Production (LRIP) 22 standard, the final production configuration for the M-ATV. This includes enhancements like the Underbody Improvement Kit (UIK) and an improved Automatic Fire Extinguishing System (AFES).

The reset also incorporates various Engineering Change Proposals (ECPs), including noise reduction through the addition of a muffler, the Modular Ammunition Restraint System (MARS) for safer ammunition storage, and the relocation of certain Government Furnished Equipment (GFE).

Oshkosh M-ATV Developments

During the International Defense Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) 2015, held from February 22 to 26 in Abu Dhabi, Oshkosh Defense introduced the Oshkosh M-ATV Extended Wheel Base Medical (EXM) variant.

This version was designed with an expanded interior, capable of transporting a diverse medical team and patients. Its modular interior configuration ensures that medical equipment is easily accessible, with a centrally located medic able to provide quick response care during transport.

In February 2015, Oshkosh Defense partnered with Alliant Techsystems to showcase the integration of a medium-caliber weapon system on the Oshkosh M-ATV. They demonstrated the firing of the M230LF 30mm chain gun, mounted on a R400S-Mk2 remote weapon station (RWS).

Weighing less than 400 kg (880 lbs) and equipped with 3-axis stabilization, this system delivered impressive accuracy and lethality during mobile engagements.

The addition of the 72.6 kg (160 lbs) M230LF significantly enhanced the M-ATV’s firepower while maintaining its off-road mobility and mine-resistant ambush-protected (MRAP) level of defense—capabilities typically associated with much heavier combat vehicles.

While the US Army M-ATV proved to be a substantial improvement over the Humvee in terms of survivability and was lighter than previous MRAP models, the U.S. military sought to further enhance troop protection and maneuverability.

This led to the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) program, aimed at creating a platform with a balance of reduced weight, increased mobility, and enhanced protection.

In August 2015, Oshkosh won the JLTV contract with its Light Combat Tactical All-Terrain Vehicle (L-ATV), incorporating design lessons from the Oshkosh M ATV to deliver a vehicle that is two-thirds its weight but offers superior off-road performance.

By 2018, the U.S. Marine Corps began fielding a Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS) that could be mounted on the Oshkosh M-ATV. This Ground-Based Air Defense (GBAD) system features the RPS-42 S-band radar, Modi electronic warfare suite, visual sensors, and the Raytheon Coyote anti-drone UAV. Together, these systems work in unison to detect, track, and eliminate hostile drones, giving the M-ATV Vehicle an advanced edge in counter-drone warfare.

Oshkosh M-ATV Design

The Oshkosh M-ATV is a heavily armored tactical vehicle that integrates a hull designed by Plasan, originally developed during the Northrop Grumman/Oshkosh JLTV Technology Development (TD) phase.

This advanced hull design is combined with components from the Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement (MTVR) chassis and Oshkosh’s highly regarded TAK-4 independent suspension system.

The TAK-4 system is fully coil-sprung, providing 16 inches of wheel travel, significantly enhancing the vehicle’s off-road capability.

In terms of survivability, the Oshkosh M-ATV is equipped with a range of features designed to enhance crew protection. The V-shaped hull is optimized for blast deflection, offering superior protection against improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

The vehicle is also engineered to continue operating for at least one kilometer even after sustaining a direct hit to critical systems like the engine oil, coolant, or hydraulic lines from 7.62mm rounds. Additionally, the engine is safeguarded by the Stat-X fire suppression system, further ensuring the vehicle’s ability to remain operational in hostile environments.

The Oshkosh M ATV is fitted with a Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS) and run-flat inserts, allowing it to travel up to 30 miles at a speed of 30 mph, even if two tires are damaged and lose pressure. Its robust traction control system and anti-lock braking system (ABS) enhance the vehicle’s stability and maneuverability, particularly in rugged terrain or combat situations.

For armament, the Oshkosh M-ATV offers both manual and remote weapon systems. Roof-mounted weapons can be manually operated with a gun shield or controlled remotely.

Manual options include the M240 machine gun, the Mk 19 grenade launcher, the M2 Browning machine gun, the MILAN anti-tank guided missile system, or the BGM-71 TOW anti-tank missile launcher.

In remote operations, the Common Remotely Operated Weapon Station (CROWS) is typically used. Additionally, for demonstration purposes, Oshkosh has equipped the Oshkosh M-ATV with the R400S-Mk2 remote weapon station, which features a 3-axis stabilization system and mounts the M230LF chain autocannon.

The M-ATV also boasts several other modern features, including a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system and power outlets for charging portable electronic devices, improving the comfort and functionality of the crew.

Notably, the Oshkosh M-ATV stands out among MRAP-type vehicles with its rear suicide-style doors, adding a unique element to its design.

Exports

In 2011, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Army made an initial purchase of 55 M-ATVs through the U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program. By July 2012, the UAE further expanded its fleet with an additional order of 750 M-ATVs directly from Oshkosh Defense.

These vehicles were acquired to enhance off-road mobility and provide robust crew protection, critical for the UAE’s regional security missions and peacekeeping operations. Among the key users of these vehicles is the elite Presidential Guard.

The final delivery was completed by August 2013. Later, in September 2014, the UAE requested another batch of 44 M-ATVs from U.S. surplus inventories.

Around the same period, in September 2013, the Saudi Arabian Army entered into negotiations to procure M-ATVs, although the exact number was not disclosed at the time. However, it is estimated that Saudi Arabia received around 450 M-ATVs, some of which included extended wheelbase models.

On April 7, 2014, the U.S. government made a significant donation of 162 M-ATVs to the Croatian Army. These vehicles were intended for use in urban and confined combat scenarios.

Of this allocation, 15 M-ATVs were designated for the Croatian Special Forces Command (SFCOM), five were assigned to the Support Command (SCOM), and two went to the Military Police Regiment.

By 2015, 78 M-ATVs had entered service with the Croatian Army, with an additional 62 units delivered in 2016 to support the 1st Battalion of the Motorized Guards Brigade stationed in Gospic.

By February 2015, the U.S. was also assisting African Union peacekeeping forces in Somalia by providing 20 M-ATVs to replace aging 1980s-era Casspir vehicles.

On February 25, 2015, Polish special forces took delivery of 45 M-ATVs under the Excess Defense Articles program. This delivery was part of the U.S. military’s broader effort to support its allies by supplying surplus equipment.

Variants

In April 2014, Oshkosh Defense officially expanded its M ATV (MRAP All-Terrain Vehicle) series by introducing specialized variants tailored to different operational needs. Over time, this lineup has evolved, with the current set of five key variants being announced in May 2016.

These variants reflect the versatility of the Oshkosh M-ATV platform, each designed to fulfill specific military roles with enhanced protection, modular seating configurations, and varying payload capacities.

The five main Oshkosh M-ATV variants include:

M-ATV Special Forces

This version is built to accommodate a 5-seat configuration and includes a protected cargo area. It has a curb weight of 31,467 pounds (14,273 kg) and offers a payload capacity of 5,500 pounds (2,495 kg).

M-ATV Assault

Designed for larger crews, the Assault variant features modular seating for up to 11 personnel. It has an extended wheelbase to support a heavier structure, weighing 35,450 pounds (16,080 kg) with a payload capacity of 4,400 pounds (1,996 kg).

M-ATV Engineer

This variant supports modular seating for 5 to 11 personnel and is engineered for mine-roller integration. It shares the extended wheelbase design, with a curb weight of 35,225 pounds (15,978 kg) and a payload capacity of 4,400 pounds (1,996 kg).

M-ATV Command

Configured for command-and-control operations, this 5-seat variant also features an extended wheelbase. It has a curb weight of 35,128 pounds (15,934 kg) and a payload capacity of 4,400 pounds (1,996 kg).

M-ATV Utility

This variant is focused on logistical support with a flatbed platform featuring ISO-lock corner fixings for cargo. It is a 5-seat vehicle with a curb weight of 29,344 pounds (13,310 kg) including fuel and offers the highest payload capacity in the series at 7,000 pounds (3,181 kg).

Oshkosh M-ATV Specs

• Type: Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) Vehicle
• Place of Origin: United States of America

Service History

• In Service: Active since 2009
• Used By: Refer to the Operators section below for more details
• Conflicts Deployed In:
  • War in Afghanistan
  • Syrian Civil War
  • Yemeni Civil War
  • Russo-Ukrainian War

Production History

• Designers: Oshkosh Corporation in collaboration with Plasan
• Design Year: 2009
• Manufacturer: Oshkosh Corporation
• M-ATV Price: Starts at $470,000 and higher, depending on configuration and mission-specific requirements
• Production Timeline: Ongoing production from 2009 to the present
• Total Units Produced: Approaching 10,000 vehicles

Technical Specifications

• Weight:
  • Curb Weight: 27,500 lbs (12,500 kg)
  • Gross Vehicle Weight: 32,500 lbs (14,700 kg)
• Dimensions:
  • Length: 246.8 inches (6,270 mm)
  • Width: 98.1 inches (2,490 mm)
  • Height: 105 inches (2,700 mm)
• Crew Capacity:
  • A standard crew of 4 personnel plus an additional gunner (4+1)
• Armor Protection:
  • Equipped with advanced composite armor developed by Plasan, designed to withstand mines and IED blasts.

M-ATV Weapon

• Primary Weapons Systems:
  • 1× 7.62×51mm NATO M240 machine gun
  • 1× 40 mm Mk 19 automatic grenade launcher
  • 1× Mk 47 Striker automatic grenade launcher
  • 1× .50 caliber (12.7 mm) M2 Browning heavy machine gun
  • 1× BGM-71 TOW anti-tank guided missile launcher
  • Saudi Arabian Variant (M-ATV):
    • 1× MILAN anti-tank guided missile launcher

M-ATV Engine

• Engine:
  • 7.2-liter Caterpillar C7 I6 diesel engine
  • Output: 370 horsepower (276 kW; 375 PS) with 925 lb-ft (1,254 N⋅m) of torque
• Power-to-Weight Ratio:
  • 23 horsepower per ton
• Payload Capacity:
  • Can carry up to 4,000 pounds (1,800 kg) of cargo or equipment
• Transmission:
  • Allison 3500SP, 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode

Suspension and Mobility

• Suspension System:
  • TAK-4 independent suspension, providing enhanced off-road mobility and stability
• Drive Configuration:
  • 4×4 wheel drive for all-terrain capabilities

M-ATV Performance

• Range:
  • Can cover a distance of up to 320 miles (510 kilometers) on a full tank of fuel
• Maximum Speed:
  • Electronically limited to 65 miles per hour (105 kilometers per hour)