HMMWV Variants

The HMMWV family encompasses far more than the basic cargo carrier most people envision. Over 15 distinct variants serve roles from air defense to ambulance duty, each optimized for specific military requirements while sharing the common Humvee platform.

Cargo and Troop Carriers

The M998 series represents the baseline HMMWV configuration. The M998 cargo/troop carrier hauls equipment or up to eight soldiers on bench seats. The M1038 adds a winch for recovery operations. These soft-top vehicles prioritize payload capacity and versatility over protection.

The M1097 Heavy HMMWV variant handles increased payload requirements with a reinforced frame and upgraded suspension. This variant often carries communications shelters, generators, or other heavy equipment that exceeds standard HMMWV capacity.

Weapons Carriers

The M1025 and M1026 armament carriers mount crew-served weapons including the M2 .50 caliber machine gun, MK19 40mm grenade launcher, or M60/M240 machine guns. These variants feature reinforced roofs and weapon mounting systems. The M1025 uses a basic armored turret ring, while the M1026 adds supplemental armor.

The M1043 and M1044 further upgrade armor protection for weapons carrier missions. These variants saw extensive use in convoy security and patrol operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Up-Armored Variants

Combat experience drove development of heavily armored HMMWVs. The M1114 Up-Armored HMMWV added substantial ballistic protection, ceramic armor plates, bullet-resistant windows, and blast-resistant floors. Weight increased to over 12,000 pounds, requiring engine and suspension upgrades.

The M1151 Enhanced Armament Carrier represented the ultimate armored Humvee, combining M1114-level protection with improved weapons mounting systems and air conditioning for crew comfort in harsh environments.

Specialized Variants

The M1035 soft-top ambulance carries four litter patients or eight ambulatory casualties. The M996/M997 Mini-Ambulance variants provide armored medical evacuation capability. The M1037 S250 shelter carrier transports rigid communications or command shelters.

TOW missile carriers (M966/M1036/M1045/M1046) mount the TOW anti-tank guided missile system, providing mobile anti-armor capability to light forces. The M1037 configuration carries the Avenger air defense system with Stinger missiles.

Communications and Command

Numerous HMMWV variants serve command and communications roles. These vehicles carry radio systems, satellite communications equipment, or electronic warfare systems. The platform’s payload capacity and power generation make it suitable for mobile command posts and signals intelligence platforms.

International Variants

Nations operating HMMWVs have developed their own variants. Israel’s AIL Storm adds extensive armor and weapons options. Egypt produces HMMWVs locally with unique configurations. Each operator has adapted the platform to their specific operational requirements while maintaining commonality with the base vehicle.