Oshkosh M-ATV MRAP Family

Oshkosh M-ATV Overview

The M-ATV is offered in eight distinct variants: “Base (SXB)“, “Upgrade (SXU)“, “Special Forces (SXF)“, “Assault (EXI)“, “Engineer (EXE)“, “Command (EXC)“, “Medical (EXM)” and “Utility“. Developed by the U.S. defense company Oshkosh Defense, the M-ATV is a 4-wheel-drive Mine-Resistant Ambush-Protected (MRAP) vehicle. This versatile vehicle family has been deployed by various military forces, particularly in regions like Afghanistan and Iraq, providing critical protection against roadside bombs, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and ambushes.

Oshkosh M-ATV Chassis

The M-ATV is powered by a 370-horsepower, 7.2L 6-cylinder turbodiesel engine that delivers 1254 Nm of torque. It features a fully automatic transmission with six forward speeds, one reverse speed, and a two-speed transfer box, enabling permenant four-wheel drive. Both front and rear axles are equipped with independent suspension systems, including double A-arm setups, coil springs, and telescopic shock absorbers, providing enhanced mobility and stability on rough terrain.

The vehicle is outfitted with 395/85 R20 or 16R20 sizes tubeless, run-flat tires depend on variant. All variants provide Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS) allows tire pressure adjustment while on the move, tailored to different terrains. Braking is managed by a dual-line, air over hydraulic system with drum brakes on all wheels, supplemented by Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) and Automatic Traction Control (ATC).

Oshkosh M-ATV Protection and Armament

The M-ATV offers ballistic protection compliant with STANAG 4569. It also provides mine protection according to STANAG 4569. The vehicle can be equipped with different kind of turrets, cupolas etc. Fire suppression systems for crew compartment, engine compartment and undercarriage are provided. Additional protection systems can be integrated as per mission requirements.

Oshkosh M-ATV Variants

M-ATV Base (SXB)

Weight and Dimensions

The Base variant of the M-ATV family has a curb weight of 11,123 kilograms and a payload capacity of 5,675 kilograms, resulting in a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 16,798 kilograms. The vehicle measures approximately 6,050 millimeters in length, 2,590 millimeters in height, and about 3,120 millimeters in width, including accessories. It has a wheelbase of 3,930 millimeters. Ground clearance is about 375 millimeters, optimizing its performance for off-road operations and obstacle clearance.

Performance

The M-ATV Base variant achieves a maximum speed of 105 km/h and a range of 515 kilometers. It has a turning radius of 9.6 meters and is capable of fording water up to 914 millimeters deep. Its approach and departure angles are about 35° and 60°, respectively, ensuring effective navigation of steep inclines and challenging terrain. The vehicle has a gradeability of 60%, can traverse side slopes up to 40%. The power-to-weight ratio is 22 horsepower per ton.

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M-ATV Upgrade (SXU)

Weight and Dimensions

The Upgrade variant of the M-ATV has dimensions of approximately 6,050 millimeters in length, 2,766 millimeters in height, and 3,120 millimeters in width, including accessories. It features a wheelbase of 3,930 millimeters, providing stability and maneuverability. With a ground clearance of about 475 millimeters, the vehicle is designed for excellent off-road capability.

In terms of weight, the M-ATV Upgrade variant has a curb weight of 12,940 kilograms and can carry a payload of 3,858 kilograms, bringing its Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) to 16,798 kilograms.

Performance

The M-ATV Upgrade variant is built to handle challenging terrain with approach and departure angles of approximately 35° and 60°, respectively, enabling it to tackle steep inclines and rugged landscapes.

It has a top speed of 105 km/h and a range of 515 kilometers, ensuring reliable performance over long distances. The vehicle also offers a turning radius of 9.6 meters and can ford water up to 914 millimeters deep. With a gradeability of 60%, the M-ATV Upgrade can handle side slopes of up to 30%. Its power-to-weight ratio is 22 horsepower per ton.

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M-ATV Special Forces (SXF)

Weight and Dimensions

The Special Forces variant of the M-ATV family spans approximately 6,280 millimeters in length, 2,667 millimeters in height, and 3,120 millimeters in width, including accessories. It has a curb weight of 12,325 kilograms and a payload capacity of 4,473 kilograms, resulting in a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 16,798 kilograms.

For enhanced off-road performance, the M-ATV features a wheelbase of 3,930 millimeters, and a ground clearance of 375 millimeters, making it well-suited for navigating rough terrain and clearing obstacles.

Performance

The M-ATV Special Forces variant boasts a maximum speed of 105 km/h and a range of 515 kilometers. Its power-to-weight ratio stands at 22 horsepower per ton, ensuring reliable performance in demanding environments.

The vehicle features a turning radius of 9.6 meters and is capable of fording water depths up to 914 millimeters. With approach and departure angles of approximately 35° and 48°, respectively, the M-ATV Special Forces variant excels at navigating steep inclines and rugged terrain. It can handle a gradeability of 60%, traverse side slopes up to 40%.

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M-ATV Assault (EXI)

Weight and Dimensions

The Assault variant of the M-ATV family features a wheelbase of approximately 4,430 millimeters. Its dimensions include a length of about 6,870 millimeters, a height of 2,766 millimeters, and a width of 3,120 millimeters, including accessories. With a ground clearance of 475 millimeters, the vehicle is designed for exceptional off-road performance and obstacle navigation.

Weighing in at around 16,700 kilograms, the M-ATV Assault variant has a payload capacity of about 2,000 kilograms, bringing its Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) to 18,700 kilograms.

Performance

The M-ATV Assault variant is capable of handling a gradeability of 60% and can traverse side slopes up to 30%. It is designed to ford water up to 914 millimeters deep and boasts approach and departure angles of about 35° and 45°, respectively, allowing it to navigate steep inclines and challenging terrain.

With a turning radius of approximately 10.5 meters, the M-ATV Assault variant reaches a maximum speed of 105 km/h and offers a range of 515 kilometers. The power-to-weight ratio is 19 horsepower per ton.

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M-ATV Engineer (EXE)

Weight and Dimensions

The Engineer variant of the M-ATV family has a height of 2,766 millimeters, a length of around 6,870 millimeters, and a width of about 3,120 millimeters, including accessories. It features a wheelbase of approximately 4,430 millimeters. With a ground clearance of 475 millimeters, the vehicle is designed for superior off-road performance and obstacle clearance.

Weighing approximately 16,700 kilograms with a payload capacity of about 2,000 kilograms, the Engineer variant has a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 18,700 kilograms.

Performance

The M-ATV Engineer variant has a maximum speed of 105 km/h and a range of 515 kilometers. It features a turning radius of approximately 10.5 meters and is capable of fording water up to 914 millimeters deep. With approach and departure angles of about 35° and 45°, respectively, it ensures efficient navigation of steep inclines and difficult terrain. The vehicle offers a gradeability of 60%, can traverse side slopes up to 30%. The power-to-weight ratio is 19 horsepower per ton.

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M-ATV Command (EXC)

Weight and Dimensions

The Command variant of the M-ATV family has a curb weight of around 16,700 kilograms and a payload capacity of approximately 2,000 kilograms, resulting in a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 18,700 kilograms. The vehicle measures about 6,870 millimeters in length, 2,766 millimeters in height, and 3,120 millimeters in width, including accessories. It has a wheelbase of approximately 4,430 millimeters. With a ground clearance of 475 millimeters, it is optimized for off-road operations and effective obstacle clearance.

Performance

The M-ATV Command variant boasts a maximum speed of 105 km/h and a range of 515 kilometers. Its power-to-weight ratio is 19 horsepower per ton. The vehicle features a turning radius of approximately 10.5 meters and can ford water up to 914 millimeters deep. With approach and departure angles of roughly 35° and 45°, respectively. Designed to handle steep inclines and rough terrain, the M-ATV offers a gradeability of 60% and can navigate side slopes up to 30%.

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M-ATV Medical (EXM)

Weight and Dimensions

The Medical variant of the M-ATV family has dimensions of approximately 6,870 millimeters in length, 2,766 millimeters in height, and 3,120 millimeters in width, including accessories. It features a wheelbase of 4,430 millimeters.

Weighing around 16,700 kilograms with a payload capacity of about 2,000 kilograms, the M-ATV Medical variant has a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 18,700 kilograms. With 475 millimeters of ground clearance, it is optimized for off-road performance and obstacle clearance.

Performance

The M-ATV Medical variant offers a maximum speed of 105 km/h and a range of 515 kilometers. It has a turning radius of about 10.5 meters and can ford water up to 914 millimeters deep. With an approach angle of 35° and a departure angle of 45°, it can navigate steep grades and rough terrain. The vehicle is capable of climbing a 60% grade, can handle side slopes up to 30%. The vehicle’s power-to-weight ratio is 19 horsepower per ton.

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M-ATV Utility

Weight and Dimensions

The Utility variant of the M-ATV family has a payload capacity of 4,050 kilograms and a curb weight of 12,750 kilograms, resulting in a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 16,798 kilograms. With 475 millimeters of ground clearance, it is designed for exceptional off-road capabilities and obstacle clearance.

The vehicle’s dimensions include a length of approximately 6,870 millimeters, a height of 2,766 millimeters, and a width of about 3,120 millimeters, including accessories. It features a wheelbase of 4,430 millimeters.

Performance

The M-ATV Utility variant achieves a top speed of 105 km/h and a range of 515 kilometers. The vehicle has a turning radius of about 10.5 meters and can ford water up to 914 millimeters deep.

With approach and departure angles of approximately 35° and 45°, respectively, it can easily handle steep inclines and challenging terrain. The M-ATV Utility variant offers a gradeability of 60%, can navigate side slopes up to 30%. Its power-to-weight ratio is 22 horsepower per ton.

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Development Story of the Oshkosh M-ATV

The story of the Oshkosh M-ATV begins in mid-2008, driven by an urgent operational requirement from the US military. While the initial wave of MRAP vehicles like the Cougar and MaxxPro proved highly effective against IEDs on relatively stable road networks in Iraq, their heavy weight and rigid suspension systems presented significant mobility challenges on the rough, undeveloped terrain of Afghanistan. Soldiers and Marines operating in Afghanistan needed a vehicle that could offer MRAP-level protection but with enhanced off-road agility.

The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) initiated the MRAP All-Terrain Vehicle (M-ATV) program to address this gap. A Request for Information (RfI)/Market Survey was issued in August 2008, followed by a formal Request for Proposals (RFP) in December 2008. The requirements were stringent: the vehicle needed to be lighter than existing MRAPs, capable of traversing 70% off-road terrain, and still provide exceptional protection against mines, IEDs, and small arms fire.

Oshkosh Corporation, a company with a long history of developing robust tactical wheeled vehicles for the military, responded to this challenge with its M-ATV proposal. The key to Oshkosh’s solution was the integration of its proprietary TAK-4® independent suspension system. This system, developed by Oshkosh itself from the mid-1990s and already proven on thousands of Oshkosh Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacements (MTVRs), Logistics Vehicle System Replacements (LVSRs), and Palletized Load Systems (PLS), offered exceptional wheel travel and articulation. This allowed the M-ATV to maintain ground contact and mobility over highly uneven terrain, a critical advantage in Afghanistan’s mountainous and often road-deficient landscape.

In addition to the advanced suspension, Oshkosh collaborated with Plasan Sasa of Israel for the vehicle’s armored hull. Plasan’s expertise in designing effective crew protection, including V-shaped hull technology to deflect blast forces, was crucial. The M-ATV’s design combined a fully armored, single-compartment crew capsule with blast-attenuating seats, ensuring maximum survivability for its occupants. The design also incorporated elements from the MTVR chassis, further demonstrating Oshkosh’s approach of leveraging proven components to accelerate development.

In March 2009, six different vehicle types from five manufacturers were delivered to the U.S. Army for a rigorous two-month evaluation. Competitors included BAE Systems (with a JLTV-derived design and a Caiman derivative), Force Dynamics (Cheetah), General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada (an RG-31 derivative), and Navistar (an MXT-based solution).

After intense testing, the U.S. DoD announced on June 30, 2009, that Oshkosh had been awarded the single Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (ID/IQ) contract for the M-ATV program. Brigadier General Michael Brogan, the US Marine Corps program officer for MRAP, cited Oshkosh’s superior survivability and its strong technical and manufacturing capabilities as key factors in the decision. The initial delivery order was for 2,244 M-ATVs, with the total requirement quickly increasing to 5,244 vehicles for various branches of the US military.

Production ramped up at an unprecedented pace. The first M-ATVs were delivered in July 2009, and by November 2009, the 1,000th M-ATV had been handed over. Oshkosh achieved its contractual obligation to produce 1,000 M-ATVs per month ahead of schedule in December 2009, utilizing both its facilities in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and its JLG telescopic handler facility in McConnellsburg, Pennsylvania. The first vehicles arrived in Afghanistan in October 2009, with all initial deliveries completed by March 2010.

The M-ATV’s rapid development, successful testing, and rapid production surge demonstrated a critical capability to meet urgent operational needs with an innovative and highly effective solution, bridging the gap between heavy MRAPs and traditional light tactical vehicles.

Exhibitions and Early Public Appearances

While the Oshkosh M-ATV was born out of an immediate operational imperative rather than a traditional, lengthy public development cycle, its rapid success in the field quickly transitioned it into a prominent feature at defense exhibitions globally. These platforms provided Oshkosh Defense with critical opportunities to showcase the M-ATV’s combat-proven capabilities, particularly its unique blend of protection and off-road mobility.

The initial “unveiling” of the M-ATV was primarily to US military and government officials during the competitive evaluation phase in early 2009. However, once the contract was awarded and production began, Oshkosh wasted no time in presenting their groundbreaking vehicle to a wider audience.

Key exhibitions and public appearances for the Oshkosh M-ATV include:

• AUSA (Association of the United States Army Annual Meeting & Exposition): As a primary supplier to the US military and the winner of a major MRAP contract, Oshkosh Defense prominently featured the M-ATV at AUSA in Washington D.C.
  • The M-ATV would have been a central exhibit at AUSA 2009, following its contract award in June of that year, showcasing its winning features and production capabilities. Its presence at subsequent AUSA events throughout the 2010s would have been consistent, highlighting its variants and upgrades.
• International Armoured Vehicles Exhibition, London: Oshkosh Defense made the M-ATV’s official “European debut” at the International Armoured Vehicles Exhibition in London in February 2010. This marked a significant step in introducing the vehicle to potential international customers beyond the immediate US procurement. At this event, Oshkosh emphasized the M-ATV’s ability to operate in rugged, mountainous terrain and unimproved road networks, characteristics directly applicable to global operational theaters.
• SOFEX (Special Operations Forces Exhibition & Conference): Given the M-ATV’s significant role with US Special Operations Command (SOCOM), it was a natural fit for SOFEX in Amman, Jordan.
  • Oshkosh Defense used SOFEX 2014 to introduce new M-ATV variants, including the M-ATV Standard and M-ATV Extended models, each with multiple mission-specific configurations. This showcased the vehicle’s versatility for special forces, counterinsurgency, and other specialized roles.
• Eurosatory: As one of the world’s largest international land and air-land defense and security exhibitions in Paris, France, Eurosatory provided another key stage for the M-ATV.
  • At Eurosatory 2014, Oshkosh further expanded on the M-ATV Family of Vehicles, displaying various standard and extended variants. The exhibition also featured live demonstrations of the Oshkosh TerraMax® unmanned ground vehicle technology integrated onto an M-ATV, demonstrating the platform’s potential for autonomous operations.

These exhibition appearances were crucial for Oshkosh to validate the M-ATV’s success, showcase its adaptability, and generate international interest, solidifying its reputation as a premier protected mobility solution for challenging environments.

A Global Fleet: Users and Operators

The Oshkosh M-ATV has achieved remarkable global reach, becoming a cornerstone of protected mobility for numerous armed forces and specialized units. Its unique blend of off-road agility and robust protection has made it a highly sought-after vehicle in diverse and challenging operational environments.

The most prominent user, by far, is the United States Armed Forces, which originally spearheaded the M-ATV program:

• U.S. Army: Acquired thousands of M-ATVs for various roles, including troop transport, route clearance, and as a versatile patrol vehicle. The M-ATV complemented and, in some cases, replaced heavier MRAPs in Afghanistan.
• U.S. Marine Corps (USMC): As the initial driver of the M-ATV requirement, the USMC heavily utilized the vehicle for its expeditionary operations, appreciating its balance of protection and maneuverability.
• U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM): A significant recipient of M-ATVs, including specialized variants tailored for special reconnaissance, direct action, and unconventional warfare missions.
• U.S. Air Force: Uses M-ATVs for base defense, security operations, and convoy protection.
• U.S. Navy: Operates a smaller number of M-ATVs for specific tasks.

Beyond the United States, a growing list of international partners and allies have acquired the M-ATV, often through Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programs, highlighting its export success:

• Afghanistan: The Afghan National Army received M-ATVs as part of security assistance efforts, crucial for their operations against insurgent forces.
• Croatia: The Croatian Armed Forces received M-ATVs via US donation, integrating them into their Special Forces, Military Police, and infantry brigades.
• Iraq: Iraqi security forces have received M-ATVs, vital for their ongoing counter-insurgency and stabilization efforts.
• Morocco: Began receiving M-ATVs in June 2025, enhancing its security operations in high-risk zones and for counterinsurgency, peacekeeping, and rapid response missions.
• Poland: The Polish Special Forces operate M-ATVs.
• Saudi Arabia: A significant international customer, having acquired a large fleet of M-ATVs, including standard and extended wheelbase variants.
• Somalia: M-ATVs have been reported in use by forces in Somalia, likely through African Union mission deployments or US security assistance.
• Syria (via US-backed forces): M-ATVs have been seen with US-backed forces in Syria.
• Ukraine: In response to the ongoing conflict, Ukraine has received a significant number of M-ATVs as part of military aid packages from the United States since early 2023. These vehicles are vital for protected mobility, especially in areas with extensive minefields and high threat levels.
• United Arab Emirates (UAE): A major international customer, having placed substantial orders for M-ATVs, which they use for their armed forces.
• Uruguay: Began receiving M-ATVs from the US in May 2025, intended for national roles such as reconnaissance and border control, as well as for international missions under UN frameworks.
• Uzbekistan: An operator of the M-ATV.
• Yemen: M-ATVs have been reported in service in Yemen.

This diverse list of operators across multiple continents highlights the M-ATV’s reputation as a versatile, combat-proven, and highly protective vehicle adaptable to a wide array of missions and environments.

Used Operations, Conflicts, and Wars

The Oshkosh M-ATV was specifically designed for the unique and challenging conditions of modern conflicts, and its operational history is deeply intertwined with its performance in some of the most dangerous theaters of the 21st century.

• Afghanistan (Operation Enduring Freedom / ISAF / Resolute Support Mission): This was the primary proving ground for the M-ATV. Deployed from October 2009 onwards, the M-ATV quickly became indispensable for US and coalition forces operating in Afghanistan’s rugged terrain, where the heavier, less mobile MRAPs struggled.
  • Counter-IED Operations: The M-ATV’s enhanced mobility allowed forces to operate off major roads and circumvent known IED hotspots, reducing exposure to threats. When hit, its V-shaped hull and robust crew capsule consistently protected occupants from blasts, leading to a dramatic reduction in casualties compared to previous vehicles.
  • Patrol and Reconnaissance: Its agility and protection made it ideal for mounted patrols in remote areas, providing troops with a safe platform for intelligence gathering and security operations.
  • Special Operations: M-ATVs were heavily utilized by US Special Operations Forces (SOF) due to their combination of survivability, mobility, and adaptability for specialized mission equipment.
  • Convoy Escort: While lighter than other MRAPs, the M-ATV still provided vital protection for logistics and supply convoys traversing dangerous routes.
• Iraq (Operation Iraqi Freedom / New Dawn / Inherent Resolve): Although primarily designed for Afghanistan, the M-ATV also saw service in Iraq. Its mobility proved beneficial in areas where off-road capability was still important, and its protection remained vital against persistent IED threats and insurgent attacks.
• Syria: M-ATVs have been deployed by US forces and their partners in anti-ISIS operations and other security roles in Syria, operating in diverse environments from urban centers to desert landscapes.
• Yemen: M-ATVs have been observed in service with various forces operating in the complex conflict in Yemen, indicating their continued relevance in highly volatile and unpredictable environments.
• Ukraine (since 2023): The transfer of M-ATVs to Ukraine as part of military aid packages since early 2023 has placed them in a high-intensity, large-scale conventional conflict. Ukrainian forces are leveraging the M-ATV’s superior blast protection against extensive minefields and its off-road capability for maneuver warfare. The vehicle is used for protected troop transport, medical evacuation, and support roles, providing crucial survivability against artillery strikes, drone attacks, and landmines on the front lines. Open-source reporting confirms instances of M-ATVs withstanding significant damage in Ukraine, underscoring their protective qualities in this brutal conflict.

The operational record of the Oshkosh M-ATV is one of unparalleled success in mitigating casualties from asymmetric threats. Its blend of protection and mobility was precisely what was needed in the evolving landscape of modern warfare, cementing its legacy as one of the most effective and critical military vehicles of its generation.

A Dominant Force: Contracts and Sales

The commercial history of the Oshkosh M-ATV is defined by extraordinarily large contracts, primarily from the United States military, and substantial international sales that solidified its position as the premier all-terrain MRAP.

The United States Department of Defense (DoD) was the overwhelming majority customer:

• Initial Production Contract (2009): The most significant contract was awarded on June 30, 2009, when Oshkosh Defense received the single ID/IQ contract for the M-ATV program. The initial delivery order was for 2,244 M-ATVs, valued at over $1 billion.
• Rapid Expansion of Orders (2009-2010): Following the initial order, the demand for M-ATVs surged dramatically as the US military prioritized their deployment to Afghanistan. The overall M-ATV requirement quickly increased from 2,080 to 5,244 M-ATVs across the Army, Marines, US Special Operations Command (SOCOM), Air Force, and Navy. Oshkosh received numerous follow-on orders during this period, with production peaking at 1,000 vehicles per month.
• Total US Deliveries: By the conclusion of its primary production phase, Oshkosh had delivered over 8,700 M-ATVs to various branches of the U.S. military. This makes the M-ATV one of the most widely produced and deployed MRAP variants.
• Reset and Sustainment Contracts: Even after new vehicle production slowed, Oshkosh continued to secure significant contracts for the refurbishment, modernization, and ongoing sustainment of the M-ATV fleet.
  • In August 2014, Oshkosh was awarded a base contract to reset 500 M-ATVs, which was expanded in December 2014 with options for an additional 300 vehicles, bringing the total to 800 M-ATVs for reset by September 2015. This “reset” program brought older vehicles up to the latest production standard (LRIP 22).
  • Ongoing contracts for spare parts, maintenance, and technical support have ensured the continued readiness of the M-ATV fleet for years after its initial procurement.

International Sales (Foreign Military Sales – FMS):

Beyond the US, Oshkosh has secured numerous international sales for the M-ATV, often facilitated through US FMS programs:

• Saudi Arabia: A very significant international customer. For instance, in 2012, the UAE placed an initial order for 55 M-ATVs through FMS, followed by a much larger order for an additional 750 M-ATVs. Saudi Arabia also acquired approximately 1,859 M-ATVs, including standard and extended wheelbase variants.
• United Arab Emirates (UAE): Also a major customer, with substantial orders placed, including the aforementioned 750 vehicles. In December 2023, Navistar Defense LLC was awarded a $60.9 million contract for refurbishment and upgrade of MaxxPro PLUS MRAP vehicles for the UAE, this illustrates that the UAE is still maintaining its MRAP fleet, including M-ATV.
• Croatia: Received 162 units via US donation in 2014.
• Poland: Received 45 vehicles for special forces use in 2015.
• Ukraine: Received a significant number of M-ATVs as part of US military aid packages starting in early 2023, demonstrating the vehicle’s continued relevance in contemporary conflicts.

The scale and breadth of M-ATV contracts and sales underscore its immense success and its critical role in providing protected mobility to military forces operating in hazardous environments worldwide.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the Oshkosh M-ATV

The Oshkosh M-ATV stands as a monumental success story in the annals of modern military vehicle procurement and design. Born out of an urgent and critical need to adapt to the evolving threats of asymmetric warfare in Afghanistan, it delivered a revolutionary blend of mobility and protection that fundamentally redefined light tactical vehicles.

Its rapid development in 2008-2009, driven by Oshkosh’s innovative TAK-4® independent suspension system and the collaborative expertise in armor design, enabled the M-ATV to offer unprecedented off-road capabilities while maintaining the life-saving blast protection of its heavier MRAP predecessors. This crucial combination was the decisive factor in its selection by the US military, leading to a massive and accelerated production effort that saw thousands of M-ATVs deployed to the front lines in record time.

The M-ATV’s operational history is a testament to its effectiveness. In the rugged and IED-laden terrains of Afghanistan, Iraq, and more recently, Ukraine, it has consistently proven its ability to save lives, mitigating casualties from sophisticated roadside bombs, small arms fire, and even indirect fire. Its agility allowed forces to operate more effectively off-road, reducing predictability and enhancing tactical flexibility.

Beyond its initial role, the M-ATV has continuously evolved. Exhibitions such as AUSA, SOFEX, and Eurosatory have served as vital platforms for Oshkosh to showcase new variants like the Standard and Extended models, along with specialized configurations for special forces, engineers, and command roles. The integration of advanced technologies like unmanned ground vehicle capabilities and counter-UAS systems further highlights its adaptability and enduring relevance in a dynamic threat landscape.

The overwhelming volume of contracts, particularly from the US Department of Defense, along with substantial sales to numerous international allies, underscores the M-ATV’s global impact and acceptance. It demonstrated that speed of acquisition, coupled with innovative design and proven components, could deliver a highly effective solution to urgent battlefield requirements.

The Oshkosh M-ATV is more than just a vehicle; it is a symbol of engineering ingenuity meeting critical military necessity. It has not only protected countless lives but has also set a new standard for protected mobility in hazardous environments, cementing its legacy as a pivotal vehicle in modern military history.

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