Military vehicles play a crucial role in ensuring the success of armed forces in modern warfare. From reconnaissance to transportation and protection, these machines are specifically designed to withstand hostile environments, navigate challenging terrains, and deliver essential military capabilities. Over the years, a variety of vehicles have been developed, each tailored for specific tasks, and many have become icons due to their rugged designs, impressive performances, and historical significance. This list highlights some of the most remarkable and “badass” military vehicles ever made, chosen based on their unique features, operational history, and impact on military operations. From amphibious cars to armored trucks and highly specialized rescue vehicles, each one has left its mark on military history.
1. Fennek
Named after the fennec fox, the Fennek is a highly adaptable armored reconnaissance vehicle used by both the German and Dutch armies. Its low, wide design offers excellent stability and agility on diverse terrains. The vehicle can be equipped with various weapons, such as a 12.7mm machine gun or Rafael Spike anti-tank missiles, depending on the mission. Its primary purpose is to provide reconnaissance and intelligence while keeping the crew safe, even in the most hostile conditions. The Fennek’s versatility makes it an essential asset in modern military operations.
2. Volkswagen Schwimmwagen
The Volkswagen Schwimmwagen, affectionately known as the “swimming car,” was an amphibious vehicle used extensively by the German military during World War II. With over 14,000 units produced between 1942 and 1944, the Schwimmwagen became the most-produced amphibious car ever made. Powered by a 1.1-liter engine, the vehicle featured a rear-mounted propeller that allowed it to seamlessly transition from land to water. The Schwimmwagen’s adaptability in crossing both terrains proved invaluable during military campaigns, cementing its place as a historic and beloved vehicle.
3. Marauder
The South African-built Marauder gained fame after being featured on Top Gear for its impressive protective capabilities. Weighing up to 13,000 kg and powered by a six-cylinder diesel engine, the Marauder was designed to endure explosive environments. Its double-skinned armor can withstand blasts equivalent to 8 kg of TNT under the hull and 14 kg under the wheels. The Marauder’s resilience and durability have made it a standout vehicle for troops in regions plagued by landmines and explosives, offering unparalleled protection for soldiers in hostile territories.
4. Ekranoplan
The Soviet ekranoplan is an experimental vehicle that blends the characteristics of both an aircraft and a boat. Utilizing a ground effect wing, the ekranoplan generates an air cushion, allowing it to skim over water at speeds of up to 300 mph. It can carry significantly more cargo than traditional aircraft while being faster than most ships. Although its massive size and unwieldiness kept it from being fully operational, it remains an extraordinary example of Soviet engineering, capable of revolutionizing transport if refined.
5. HDT Storm SRTV
The HDT Storm SRTV (Search and Rescue Tactical Vehicle) is an air-droppable vehicle designed for retrieving downed aircrews behind enemy lines. With a 430hp engine and specialized suspension, the SRTV can handle tough terrains and quickly navigate hostile environments. It is regarded as a “weaponized military trophy truck” thanks to its rugged design and impressive off-road capabilities. The vehicle is primarily used by U.S. Pararescue teams and is often dropped from military aircraft such as the C-130 Hercules, ensuring that rescuers are always ready to respond in emergencies.
6. Cougar 6×6
The Cougar 6×6 is a heavily armored vehicle designed to protect troops from the threat of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) during operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Its V-shaped hull helps deflect the force of explosions away from the vehicle, significantly improving the survival rate of its occupants. The Cougar has proven successful in saving lives, even after an IED explosion of 130-200 kg detonated underneath it, and many soldiers involved in such incidents were able to return to duty the next day. Its effectiveness in protecting soldiers from hidden threats makes it one of the most valuable military vehicles in modern warfare.
7. Volvo TP21
Built between 1953 and 1958, the Volvo TP21 was an off-road military communications vehicle used by the Swedish Armed Forces. Converted from the civilian PV800 Series taxi, the TP21 was designed for durability and reliability in challenging conditions. Though not as widely known as other military vehicles, the TP21 was an essential asset for the Swedish army during the Cold War, exemplifying how civilian vehicles could be effectively adapted for military use.
8. BvS 10 ‘Viking’
The BvS 10, also known as the Viking, is a twin-chassis armored vehicle built for extreme mobility. Developed by the Swedish company Hägglunds, the Viking consists of two separate sections: a five-ton front chassis and a 3.5-ton rear chassis. This design allows it to traverse rugged terrains with ease and operate in harsh weather conditions. Amphibious and highly maneuverable, the Viking is ideal for combat and peacekeeping missions, offering versatility and protection for troops in a variety of environments.
9. Humvee
The Humvee, or High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV), has become an iconic symbol of modern military mobility. First developed in the 1980s, the Humvee has been used by the U.S. military for a wide range of purposes, from troop transport to reconnaissance and logistical support. Over 280,000 units were built, and the vehicle played a prominent role in conflicts such as the Gulf War, the Iraq War, and the War on Terror. Although it is being gradually replaced by more advanced vehicles, the Humvee’s legacy remains firmly entrenched in military history.
10. Willys Jeep
The Willys MB Jeep is perhaps the most iconic military vehicle of all time. Developed in the 1940s, the Jeep became the backbone of the U.S. military during World War II. Its compact size, off-road capabilities, and versatility made it essential for tasks ranging from reconnaissance to transporting supplies and wounded soldiers. Over 600,000 units were produced, and the Jeep’s design influenced countless civilian vehicles in the years following the war. Even today, the Jeep brand carries the legacy of the Willys MB, a vehicle that played a critical role in Allied victory.
Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles are designed to offer superior protection against mines and explosive devices, which became a significant threat during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The Cougar 6×6 is one of the most notable MRAP vehicles, featuring reinforced armor and blast-resistant structures. These vehicles have saved countless lives by offering troops protection from hidden explosive threats, fundamentally changing the way military vehicles are designed for modern warfare.
Armored reconnaissance vehicles, like the Fennek, are specialized machines designed to gather intelligence and provide battlefield awareness. Equipped with advanced sensors, communications systems, and weapons, these vehicles allow troops to operate stealthily in hostile territories while collecting vital information. The Fennek’s agility and ability to navigate difficult terrains make it an essential tool for modern reconnaissance, helping military commanders gain a tactical advantage by providing real-time data and intelligence.
From amphibious cars to heavily armored vehicles, military vehicles have evolved over time to meet the ever-changing demands of warfare. These “badass” machines, each with its unique capabilities, provide essential support to troops in a wide variety of combat scenarios. Whether it’s for reconnaissance, protection, rescue, or transport, these vehicles have proven to be indispensable on the modern battlefield. Their development reflects the constant need for innovation and adaptation in military strategy, ensuring that armed forces are prepared to tackle the challenges of an unpredictable world.
