US Army Orders New Batch of Armored Humvees Sustaining Core Expeditionary Capability.

On July 29, 2025, the United States Department of Defense announced that AM General LLC, a military vehicle manufacturer based in South Bend, Indiana, had received a contract modification worth $126,531,778 to produce HMMWV vehicles of the M1165A1B3 type. This decision is part of a broader modernization program for the U.S. Army's light tactical mobility assets, aimed at meeting operational requirements across diverse environments.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

At the center of this new order is the M1165A1B3, an armored and air-conditioned variant designed for command and liaison missions, capable of transporting personnel or sensitive equipment under protective conditions (Picture source: AM General)

The original contract, identified as W912CH-24-F-0229, had already been awarded to AM General to produce advanced High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles (HMMWV), tailored to current needs in protection, mobile command, and tactical support. The newly announced modification, referenced as P00023, raises the total contract value to $3,050,585,536, placing it among the largest active light vehicle programs managed by the U.S. Army.

At the center of this new order is the M1165A1B3, an armored and air-conditioned variant designed for command and liaison missions, capable of transporting personnel or sensitive equipment under protective conditions. It is powered by a 6.5-liter GEP V8 turbo diesel engine producing 190 horsepower, paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle reaches a top speed of 113 km/h and maintains strong off-road capabilities. It offers 43 cm of ground clearance, can ford up to 1.52 meters of water with a dedicated kit, and is equipped with run-flat functionality allowing 48 km of travel after tire puncture. Its maximum payload is 1,012 kg, with a gross vehicle weight of 5,488 kg. The M1165A1B3 includes a 30,000 BTU air conditioning system, reinforced suspension, an automatic fire extinguishing system (AFES), and quick-release seat belts.

In terms of protection, the vehicle features underbody armor, side rocker armor, a lower windshield deflector, and energy-absorbing seats. The B3 armor kit, installable at the plant or in the field, includes perimeter protection, overhead armor, and a rear ballistic bulkhead. It is also compatible with additional “Frag” kits, which provide specific reinforcement to door perimeters, wheel wells, the front cowl, and combat lock systems. This modular configuration allows adjustments based on the threat environment while preserving tactical mobility.

Production will take place at AM General’s South Bend facility, with contract completion expected by August 28, 2027. Funding for this modification comes from the “Other Procurement, Army” budget for fiscal year 2025. The full amount of $126,531,778 was obligated at the time of the award, enabling immediate initiation of the relevant production phase. The contract is administered by the Army Contracting Command at Detroit Arsenal, Michigan, which oversees ground systems acquisition for the U.S. Army.

Officially awarded June 28, 2025, the modification reflects the Department of Defense’s intent to maintain an operational and updated fleet of HMMWVs. Although newer vehicles such as the JLTV are being gradually introduced, the HMMWV remains central to light mobility operations, including logistics, reconnaissance, command, and escort missions. Its modularity, ease of deployment, and mature supply chain continue to support its ongoing role within the Army’s structure.

The July 29, 2025, announcement reinforces a long-term strategic arrangement between the U.S. Army and AM General. It extends a program that remains integral to the Army’s approach to tactical ground mobility and ensures the continued presence of HMMWV in operational inventories through at least 2027, highlighting a balance between modernization efforts and the continued use of proven vehicle platforms.Bas du formulaire