M978 HEMTT: The 2,500-Gallon Fuel Truck Keeping Armies Moving

Modern armies run on fuel. The M978 HEMTT tanker ensures that fuel reaches armored formations regardless of terrain, weather, or enemy action. This 2,500-gallon tanker combines the HEMTT’s legendary off-road capability with the specialized equipment needed to refuel everything from helicopters to tanks.

Design and Capacity

The M978 builds on the Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck chassis, adding a 2,500-gallon fuel tank and distribution equipment. The 8×8 drivetrain provides exceptional off-road mobility, allowing tankers to reach forward positions that wheeled fuel trucks cannot access.

The vehicle can carry JP-8 jet fuel, diesel, or MOGAS gasoline in segregated compartments. Pumps and hoses allow simultaneous refueling of multiple vehicles or rapid transfer to bladder farms. A trained crew can empty the full tank in under 20 minutes.

Forward Arming and Refueling Points

M978 tankers form the backbone of Forward Arming and Refueling Points (FARPs)—temporary sites where helicopters refuel and rearm close to combat. FARPs extend helicopter range and time-on-station dramatically compared to returning to distant bases.

Setting up a FARP requires M978 tankers, ammunition trucks, and minimal ground support. Helicopters land, refuel in minutes, and return to the fight. This capability proved essential in Desert Storm’s deep attacks and continues supporting helicopter operations worldwide.

Combat Logistics Patrols

In Iraq and Afghanistan, M978 tankers regularly traveled combat logistics patrols delivering fuel to forward operating bases. These convoys faced IED and ambush threats, leading to armor upgrades for tanker cabs and escort vehicles.

The fuel truck’s vulnerability made it a high-priority target. Losing a tanker not only killed crew members but denied fuel to thirsty vehicles and aircraft. Protecting tankers became a major mission for convoy security forces.

Operational Flexibility

Beyond bulk fuel transport, M978s support diverse missions. They can refuel aircraft on remote airstrips, support field hospitals’ generator needs, and provide fuel for vehicles operating far from established supply points. The HEMTT chassis’s self-recovery capability means tankers can extract themselves from difficult terrain rather than waiting for recovery vehicles.

Current and Future Service

The Army continues operating approximately 2,000 M978 tankers with ongoing upgrades to the A4 standard. Improved armor, more efficient engines, and enhanced distribution equipment keep the fleet current. As long as ground forces require fuel—and they always will—the M978 will remain essential to military operations.