10 Almost-Forgotten Military Vehicles That Once Made Waves
Some military vehicles become legends—tanks like the Sherman or jets like the Spitfire. But what about the ones that didn’t get the same fame? Over the years, armies have rolled out amphibious tanks and bizarre experimental aircraft that were ahead of their time. Here are 10 almost-forgotten military vehicles that once turned heads.
AEC Armored Car (Great Britain)
The AEC Armored Car was the most heavily armed British carrier of WWII. Later variants had powerful 6-pounders comparable to contemporary tanks. Over 600 were produced from 1942 to 1944, each providing fire support to lighter armored cars and reconnaissance units.
LVT-4 (Landing Vehicle, Tracked) (USA)
Known as the “Water Buffalo,” the LVT-4 was used for rapid troop deployment. Over 8,000 units were produced, with the US Army receiving the majority. Its engine was a Continental W670-9A, and it achieved speeds of 14 mph on land and 7 mph in water.
Panhard AML (France)
This highly successful light armored car entered service in 1961, and over 4,000 were produced, with exports to more than 30 countries. It is powered by a 4.2-liter gasoline engine, delivering around 100 horsepower, and features a distinctive aluminum hull.
M113 APC (USA)
Equipped with a 6.4-liter gasoline engine, the M113 APC could reach 40 mph and range 300 miles. Armor plates protected occupants against small arms fire and shrapnel. Despite its impressive record, the M113 has become unpopular due to its limited protection against modern threats.
BTR-40 (Soviet Union)
This Soviet-designed 8×8 armored personnel carrier was introduced in 1950. With a range of approximately 300 to 480 miles and a top speed of 50 mph, it had a GAZ-40 4.1-liter gasoline engine, offering around 37 mph. The BTR-40 can also cross water obstacles thanks to its amphibious capabilities.
Sd.Kfz. 251 (Germany)
Another forgotten military vehicle is the Sd.Kfz. 251, a German half-track introduced in 1939. It featured a front-wheel drive and rear tracks, which offered excellent mobility across various terrains. The vehicle’s armor ranged from 14 to 30mm, providing protection for the crew and payload against enemy fire.
FUG Amphibious Scout Car (Hungary)
This automobile had a 1.5-ton payload capacity and a 4×4 drive system. Powered by a 100-horsepower Csepel D-414 diesel engine, its amphibious capabilities were enhanced by a water jet propulsion system. However, the FUG was short-lived because of its limited cargo space and low speed.
ZSU-23-4 Shilka (Soviet Union)
The ZSU-23-4 Shilka is a self-propelled anti-aircraft gun featuring four 23mm autocannons mounted on a tracked chassis and a fire control system. This combination allows it to deliver a high rate of fire against aerial targets at a range of up to 2,500 meters.
FV101 Scorpion (UK)
Introduced in 1973, the FV101 was celebrated for its speed, agility, and power. It features a 76mm L23A1 gun, a lightweight design weighing around 7.6 tons, and a top speed of approximately 50 mph. The Scorpion participated in reconnaissance missions and was active during the Gulf War.
Wiesel 1 (Germany)
German light-armored vehicle, the Wiesel 1, was introduced in the late 1980s and features a modular design. The vehicle is powered by a 4-cylinder diesel engine, enabling it to reach up to 70 km/h. Its lightweight build suits for rapid deployment in diverse terrains.
