We live in a world that's constantly on the brink of change. Because of this, every single country around the globe allocates a huge budget for its defense. They recruit soldiers who will stand for their country at a moment's notice, invest in technology that will put them ahead, and utilize vehicles that will help them fight back against anyone coming their way. In 2019 alone, the U.S. spent billions buying military motors - but the U.S. isn't the only country to utilize these cars, vans, trucks, tanks, planes, and boats. Keep scrolling to see some of the world's most impressive and intimidating military vehicles.
M9 Armored Combat Earthmover
No matter how much you plan a military attack or rescue mission, you're always going to encounter problems that pop up out of the blue - and the environment can often cause some of these problems. That's why having something like the M9 Armored Combat Earthmover in your back pocket is always a bonus. This Armored Combat Earthmover (ACE) is an essential military vehicle, allowing the driver to destroy defensive barriers and break down riverbanks, buildings, and more.
It can also be used in the opposite manner. It can be used to quickly build protective earth barriers for vulnerable troops and provide essential cover for those in the field.
Black Knight Transformer
The Black Knight Transformer isn't your average military vehicle. It's actually a truck/helicopter hybrid that can be transformed at a moment's notice, no matter if you want to fly through the desert or drive at speeds of up to 70mph. This particular military motor is the first of its kind and has officially become the world's first roadable vertical takeoff and landing vehicle. Plus, it's more strong and sturdy than many of the other military vehicles on the market.
But what can you use this hybrid vehicle for? Well, it was designed with specific missions in mind, such as exploring rooftops and jumping over extreme terrain in remote areas of the world.
Airbus Beluga
While many of the intimidating military vehicles on this list are used in combat, you won't see an Airbus Beluga flying over any war zone anytime soon. That's because this military aircraft is used primarily for transporting military cargo - and it's the perfect plane for the job. In fact, the Airbus Beluga is particularly famous for its bizarre shape (which makes it look like a beluga whale), but it's this shape that allows it to carry even more cargo.
This makes it an essential tool for the military, as they are able to fly everything from smaller aircraft to food shipments and more with the help of this "Super Transporter."
Autonomous Terramax
Some of the military vehicles on this list have become essential additions to military efforts across the globe, with many countries relying on these vehicles to keep their country safe. However, others have fallen a little flat - and that was the case with the Autonomous Terramax. The idea behind this military truck was sound, and the autonomous vehicle was ultimately designed with the idea of protecting and transporting as many soldiers as they could at once.
But while it was designed for reconnaissance missions, there's no doubt about the fact that its come under scrutiny over the years. Because of this, Oshkosh Defense is still developing the final iteration of this vehicle.
M109A7 Tank
No military effort would be complete without a tank or two, and there was a time when the U.S. military favored the M109A6 Paladin. But when this tank became a little outdated, they decided to switch to the M109A7 Tank instead. This modern military Howitzer has everything that the military needs to protect and serve, and the self-propelled design offers a modern chassis and combat-ready design. Apparently, it's also much simpler to use and way more successful.
In fact, the U.S. Army love this new iteration of military vehicle so much that BAE Systems was awarded a $466 million contract in 2023 to supply these tanks to them.
AAV7
Every branch of the military has its own needs and requirements, and the AAV7 suits marine operations perfectly. This multipurpose assault vehicle is fully amphibious, allowing it to drive at around 300mph on land and an impressive 20mph under water depending on the specific operation its working on. Not only that, but its also big enough to house a crew of three and 25 soldiers to boot. But this military vehicle isn't just about the space.
The AAV7 also offers a lot in terms of weapons. It comes complete with a 25mm Bushmaster cannon, as well as a 40mm grenade launcher. This means that it's well equipped to protect itself and the soldiers inside.
Buffalo Clearance
Watch any war movie or television show and you'll see military vehicles like this one. The Buffalo Clearance has become synonymous with military defence over the years, due to the fact that it was built to be a mine-resistant ambush-protected (MRAP) armored vehicle. This means that it's one of the most protective military vehicles you can buy - but also one of the most expensive. In the grand scheme of things, however, that hefty price is worth it.
Although the vehicle is just 27 feet long, it offers a 30-foot robotic arm that will help to plan and protect the route ahead. It's even fitted with sensory equipment to spot any mines.
M1A2
Many of the military vehicles used today are second iterations of a vehicle, and that's the case with the M1A2. Back in the 1990s, the M1A1 was generally considered to be one of the best tanks the world had ever seen, and it could be found across the globe. It was strong, sturdy, and had everything soldiers needed to protect and serve. But after a while it became outdated, and the M1A2 came along.
This new military tank was released a few decades ago and has since become the main battle tank of the U.S. Army. It was also the main battle tank of the Marine Corps until they decided to decommission them in 2021.
NASA Super Guppy
As you can probably tell by the name, the NASA Super Guppy wasn't specifically designed to be a military aircraft. Instead, it was designed by NASA to allow them to transport oversized cargo from one area of the country to the other - and they nailed it. Its cargo area is a whopping 111 feet long and 25 feet in diameter, offering a much larger cargo area than any other cargo aeroplane in the world.
Not only that, but the hinged nose opens at 110 degrees, which means it's even easier to load all of the cargo into the cargo area. So, it's no wonder that the military bought some of these planes for themselves, too.
M142 HIMARS
The M142 HIMARS may look small, but there's a reason for that. This military vehicle isn't designed to be driven around carrying military supplies or troops. Instead, it's designed to be a wheeled rocket launcher and can actually launch six smaller rockets - or one larger rocket - at a distance of 186 miles at a time. It has proved to be so crucial that it's still in use today despite being first developed in the 1990s.
In fact, the M142 HIMARS have been used in many different wars over the years, including the war in Afghanistan, the Syrian Civil War, the Iraqi Civil War, and the current Russo-Ukranian war.
Humvee
There's a high chance that you're already familiar with the Humvee, as this vehicle can actually be bought by civilians. And while the civilian Humvee looks pretty similar in terms of the shape and the general size, there's no doubt about the fact that the military Humvee comes complete with some added extras. Despite its size, this four-wheeled armored vehicle is fairly lightweight, allowing it to traverse any terrain its faced with.
To this day, Humvees are still some of the most widely used military vehicles in action. But they were particularly popular during the Iraq War, when over 10,000 Humvees were deployed.
Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit
Many of the military vehicles on this list are trucks and tanks, but it's fair to say that militaries across the world also dabble with aircraft. The Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit is a stealth bomber airplane that has the ability to fly through the skies completely undetected. It was produced from 1987 until 2000, and while it's no longer around, the U.S. Military used a lot of these planes during the course of its production.
With space for a crew of two, the aim of this plane was to penetrate dense anti-aircraft defences and get one step ahead of the enemy. And it looked pretty cool, too.
CAMEL MRAP
It's important to note that the CAMEL MRAP isn't a physical, ready-to-be-used military vehicle just yet. The concept of this 8x8 truck was debuted in 2015 by Detroit Arsenal, and it's reportedly still in development today. However, if released, this “Concept for Advanced Military Explosion Mitigating Land Vehicle" (CAMEL) could have the ability to change the face of military expeditions. For starters, this truck was designed with a V-shaped base.
This makes the whole vehicle safer if driving through an area where IEDs are present. And its high profile and seating area also keeps occupants safer in the event of an explosion.
Antonov AN-225 Mriya
Developed in the 1980s, the Antonov AN-225 Mriya was never really intended to be used by the military. In fact, it was designed to carry the Buran spacecraft - as seen in the photo above. But as this plane had the ability to carry a spacecraft on its back, it didn't take long for militaries around the world to see the potential it had. After all, it can carry up to 640 tons of weight.
This, coupled with the six turbofan engines, made it a hot commodity within the military, and it's now considered to be one of the strongest and sturdiest military vehicles ever made.
Lockheed C-5 Galaxy
The planes used in the military aren't like the planes we travel on to go on vacation. These planes are often much bigger, and their main focus is to carry cargo rather than people. This is the case for the Lockheed C-5 Galaxy, which is one of the biggest military aircraft in the world. It was first developed in the 1970s and is still used today to transport supplies, weapons, soldiers, and so much more.
However, it's fair to say that there are some major downsides to the Lockheed C-5 Galaxy. For starters, building this particular military aircraft is extremely expensive and costs around $200 million.
Iveco Light Multirole Vehicle
While the Humvee is hugely popular in the United State, it's never been as popular in Europe. Instead, they have the Iveco Light Multirole Vehicle, which is very similar in terms of looks and use. This modular vehicle was designed to be as versatile as possible, with militaries being able to personalize the added extras and weapons depending on their wants and needs. Plus, many perks come as standard with this military vehicle.
As well as offering armored plating and sturdy tires, the exhaust of this vehicle has also been designed to emit less thermal radiation, which is perfect for stealth operations and missions.
BvS 10 Viking
While many military missions are planned, it's still important to be prepared for any eventuality - and this extends to the vehicles you use. That's where the BvS 10 Viking can help. This amphibious vehicle can travel underwater without any issues, but it can also take on any land that comes its way, whether that be sand dunes, snowy mountains, or everyday roads. Because of this, the BvS 10 Viking is very popular with the Ministry of Defense in the UK.
The vehicle itself is impressive, but the added extras are also an essential component of this design. It comes with thick, strong protective plating, grenade launchers, and a machine gun.
M1117 Guardian
Due to their heavy loads, their armored outer coating, the giant tires, and everything else that comes with a strong and sturdy military tank, it's fair to say that they're often pretty slow. This isn't too much of an issue for militaries across the world, as speed isn't always their greatest priority when it comes to these particular vehicles. However, the M1117 Guardian was indeed designed with speed in mind.
Although the average military tank can normally travel at speeds of between 25 to 45mph, the M1117 Guardian is an anomaly and can reach speeds of 70mph, and the power is unmatched.
HK-1
Commercial flying boats can normally be found in remote areas of the world, such as the Maldives. But for many decades, flying boats have also been used as military vehicles. During World War II, they were particularly popular. However, the HK1 just couldn't seem to get off the ground. The aircraft boat - which was also called the Spruce Goose - was made from birch wood and was extremely heavy.
Due to the impracticality of the design, the HK1 was only ever flown once. It was then deemed unsafe and unsuitable, so can now be found in a museum for plane fanatics to enjoy.
M1 Shredder
When looking at the M1 Shredder, it would be easy to assume that this strong military tank was designed specifically for combat situations. And while this is true, the purpose of the M1 Shredder isn't to attack. Instead, it's to rescue and clear the path for soldiers and military vehicles who want to get to the front line. Yes, it's all about clearing any obstructions and pushing everything out of the way.
That doesn't mean that it's not willing to fight back against those who try to get in its way, though. The M1 Shredder is also kitted out in grenades and is fully armored.
Avenger Weapon System
Although it's not technically a vehicle, we'd be remiss if we didn't talk about the Avenger Weapon System. This creation is actually placed on top of another military vehicle and is fully automated for ease of use and safety. And the aim of this system is to shoot eight Stinger missiles towards the enemy using impressive modern technology. In fact, the system can track and engage enemy targets no matter whether its sitting in place or on a moving truck.
Not only that but this system can also be used at any time of the day thanks to its laser range finder and computer system. In short, it's very rare that it misses.
Cougar MRAP
You should be able to tell, just by looking at this military vehicle, that the Cougar MRAP is used in the line of fire. This particular vehicle is completely ambush-protected and made from the strongest and sturdiest material on offer. After all, it's designed to be completely resistant to landmines and improvised munitions. But while the truck itself is pretty impenetrable, its also kitted out in weapons to defeat the enemy.
Featuring an automatic grenade launcher, this truck is extremely competent when in the line of fire. And as it has a fuel capacity of 600 miles, its also perfect for remote operations.
RG-31 Nyala
Although the RG-31 Nyala is used by military forces across the globe, it's also hugely popular with peacekeeping security forces and the United Nations. This is because the mine-resistant ambush protected infantry vehicle is made to withstand any type of enemy fire that comes its way. The armored vehicle should be able to withstand everything from land mines to roadside bombs. It's also been designed to look less intimidating than other tanks on the market.
It's still worthy of a place within the military, though. The RG-31 Nyala has space for nine soldiers and offers a 400-horsepower engine, which means it boasts some serious power.
P-19R Aircraft Firefighter
Most military cars, trucks, and tanks are designed with specific uses in mind. Some are built to protect, others are built to attack, and then there are some that are designed to rescue. This is the case for the P-19R Aircraft Firefighter, which is specifically used to rescue allied planes and aircraft from enemy territory. If that plane is on fire, it's also equipped with everything it needs to put the fire out as soon as possible.
The P-19R Aircraft Firefighter has the ability to hold and transport an impressive 1,030 gallons of water, as well as 130 gallons of fire-extinguishing foam agent. This allows it to work quickly and effectively.
M2 Bradley
Countless military tanks have been developed over the years. These are all strong and sturdy, and they all offer many of the same features. However, there's a reason why the M2 Bradley is so popular, and that's because it has the ability to house ten soldiers and can reach speeds of up to 35mph - which is pretty speedy for such a heavy tank. Not only that, but it's also kitted out with top-tier weapons.
Featuring a 22 Bushmaster cannon and impressive missiles, it's perfect for attacking and defending. In fact, it's often used in search and rescue operations as well as live fire situations.
Antonov An-124
Many of the larger planes used by the military are also used in a commercial sense, and that's certainly the case for the Antonov An-124. There are around 50 Antonov An-124s across the world, with many of them being used by businesses and freight companies to transport cargo. However, many are also used by military forces across the globe to transport their supplies, too - and they've been in use since the 1980s.
Despite the fact that this plane is the second-heaviest cargo ship in the world, it's also extremely spacious and well-regarded in the aviation industry. So, they're in very high demand.
M88A2 Hercules
Used primarily by the U.S. Armed Forces, the M88 Recovery Vehicle is one of the most popular armored recovery vehicles (ARV) in the world. As suggested by the name itself, this military vehicle isn't designed to enter into combat itself. Instead, it's designed to recover and repair fighting vehicles while in the line of fire. It can do this with ease thanks to its 70-ton pulling power and its 1,050 horsepower engine.
There are three types of M88s in use, but the M88A2 Hercules is particularly famous as it was the driving force when pulling down the statue of the Former President of Iraq.
The LVSR Wrecker
At first glance, you may assume that this military vehicle looks a little like a dump truck. Because of this, the LVSR Wrecker has built up a reputation over the years. But those who think that this truck is all about trash collection are sorely mistaken, as the LVSR Wrecker was developed primarily as a Search and Rescue Wrecker. This means that its main job is to head into war zones and extract cars, vehicles, equipment, and more.
It can extract a lot, too. The hauling power of this particular military vehicle is 96,000 pounds, which means that it can rescue multiple tanks, cars, and other vehicles at once.
QinetiQ Raider
At first glance, the QinetiQ Raider looks like something you'd ride on through the desert on vacation. But you shouldn't underestimate this military vehicle. The QinetiQ Raider is one of the most adaptable vehicles in the world and has been designed to be an ISR truck suitable for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance. In fact, it can even be piloted remotely, so there's no need to put soldiers in harm's way.
As if that wasn't enough, it's also kitted out in all of the latest technology and gadgets, which means it's capable of detecting IEDs. Because of this, it's become an essential military addition.
Global HET
The name Global HET is short for Global Heavy Equipment Transporter, and this gives you an indicator as to what this particular military vehicle is used for. Instead of being a part of military combat, this vehicle is called upon when assault tanks and other cars and trucks need to be relocated to another area of the country - or another area of the world. Thankfully, it's pretty strong, because it certainly needs to be.
All in all, the Global HET can carry a whopping 72 tons, and the 700 horsepower engine means that it can carry these loads without having to worry too much about itself.
Stryker Combat Vehicle
Although many soldiers ultimately end up fighting on foot, it's impossible - and incredibly dangerous - to travel on foot when they're in enemy territory. Because of this, they rely on military transport vehicles like the Stryker Combat Vehicle. However, the Stryker Combat Vehicle is a little different because it's a hybrid between an armored personnel carrier and an infantry fighting vehicle. This means that, while its first port of call is protection, it can also defend at the same time.
With eight wheels, a huge selection of weapons, and armoured protection, this tank is one of the most popular military vehicles in a military's arsenal. And soldiers rely on the protection this truck gives them.
LAV-25
Many of the best military vehicles on the market aren't just strong and sturdy. They're also hybrid vehicles that can be used in multiple ways, and the LAV-25 is a prime example of that. This hybrid amphibious vehicle can be used both on land and in the water, and it's more than capable of fighting back against the enemy. In fact, it offers both a chain gun and a machine gun onboard.
Not only that, but it can travel 62 mph on land and 6 mph in the water, which is pretty impressive when compared to other armored tanks on the market.
Ilyushin II-76
What's amazing about the Ilyushin II-76 is that it's still in use today despite being first developed in the late 1960s. In fact, it was developed to help the Soviet's during the tough Cold War years, and has since been adopted by commercial freight companies thanks to its impressive cargo hold and its weight capacity. That's because this military plane was designed to carry and transport heavy military machinery and supplies.
The idea was to use this plane to travel to remote areas, and that's exactly what it did. It's also what it's still doing today, as the Ilyushin II-76 is still very popular.
Nurol Makina NMS 4×4
Unlike many of the other military vehicles on this list, the Nurol Makina NMS 4×4 wasn't designed for combat situations. Instead, it was designed to be used by military units and law enforcement officers looking to transport high-profile persons. But while comfort has been considered, there's no doubt abut the fact that it can still ward off any danger and keep the people inside safe. It even has a V-shaped body to protect it from land mines.
As this vehicle is also relatively new, it also comes with technology to provide defence against drones - a threat which is becoming more and more common in the modern world.
Boeing C-17 Globemaster III
While Boeing is typically associated with commercial aircraft, they're also known for developing military aircraft. The Boeing C-17 Globemaster III - also called the McDonnell Douglas - was specifically designed for the United States Air Force back in the 1980s, and the aim of this military vehicle was clear. The Air Force wanted a plane that would be able to pull off tactical airlift missions, troop transport, and medical evacuation.
Because of this, the Boeing C-17 Globemaster III has a huge cargo hold that's suitable for a large number of troops or a huge amount of cargo. However, it's pretty expensive to make, so they're few and far between.
Convair XC-99
The Convair XC-99 didn't have a very long shelf life and was only used in operation for ten years, but that doesn't mean that it wasn't impressive. As one of the earliest military aircraft to be developed, it offered two cargo decks that offered space for 400 soldiers or 100,000 pounds of cargo. This was a huge feat in the late 1940s, as there was nothing else like it in development.
While it's no longer in use, there's no doubt about the fact that this particular airplane paved the way for future developments. Of course, they're much more modern than they were back then.
Aardvark JSFU Mark 4
While some military vehicles have many uses, the Aardvark JSFU Mark 4 has just one very important job: to detect landmines. With two crew members inside the cockpit, the Aardvark JSFU Mark 4 uses impressive technology and detection skills to uncover hidden landmines and pave the way for fellow military personnel nearby. Just in case it detects the mines too late, however, the vehicle will also protect the crew members inside.
The double-skinned cabin comes complete with armored glass, and extra safety precautions have been taken to ensure the survival of those inside. Because of this, it's popular in America and the UK.
Blohm & Voss BV 238
German military forces often used flying boats to their advantage during World War II. And while there were many flying boats on the market at the time, the Blohm & Voss BV 238 was unique. When it was first developed in 1944, it broke records as the heaviest aircraft ever made. And while this allowed for an impressive cargo area, the heavy weight made it clunky and difficult to use.
Because of this, only one Blohm & Voss BV 238 was ever made and it was very rarely used in combat situations. After all, it weighed a whopping 120,760 pounds when it was empty.