Tech overview of M1151A1, M1097 Humvees stolen from California Army Reserve
The Army Reserve in Tustin, California, was the target of a significant theft on Wednesday. According to the Tustin Police Department, thieves stole three Humvees — two M1097 cloth-door models and one M1151A1 armored model — along with various military equipment, including 8 machine gun vehicle mounts, 7 free-standing machine gun tripods, medical equipment, 40 pairs of binoculars and 18 bayonets. They also attempted, but failed, to steal from the uniform storage.
Let’s delve into the specifics of the stolen Humvees.
The M1151A1 is an upgraded version of the M1151. The M1151 functions as an Expanded Capacity Armament Carrier, designed to be IAP and Armor Ready, capable of mounting and firing various weapons systems with a 360-degree arc of fire. It offers options such as a Gunner’s Protection Kit and a Manual Traversing Unit.
When it comes to payload capacity, the M1151 excels on all types of roads and in diverse weather conditions without compromising its mobility, reliability or performance. Depending on the armor configuration and fragmentation kit, the payload capacity ranges from 3,340 to 5,100 pounds. The M1151 can also be transported by air, dropped or sling-loaded by helicopter.
Enhancing these capabilities, the M1151A1 provides superior protection for weapons components, crew members and ammunition. The optional “B” kit ensures comprehensive mine and ballistic protection. The field-installable and removable armor and fragmentation kits allow for mission-specific adjustments. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with an air conditioning system for crew comfort. Despite its substantial armor, the M1151A1 can cover a range of 250 miles and reach a top speed of 70 mph.
Let’s now discuss the other stolen Humvee model, the M1097 cloth-door.
The M1097, M1097A1 and M1097A2 are HMMWV configurations designed for higher payloads. They are used to transport both cargo and troops, offering basic armor for protection. The troop carrier version accommodates a two-person crew and eight passengers. Meanwhile, the cargo carrier version can handle up to 4,400 pounds, including the crew.
The vehicles use a 200-ampere power cable for shelter equipment, troop seat kits for transporting personnel and storage racks for ammunition and other supplies. Their design features crossmembers, lifting shackles, reinforced frames, heavy-duty tires and rims, shock absorbers, heavy-duty rear springs, a transfer case and differential with modified gear ratio and reinforced control arms.
These Humvees are exceptional at navigating difficult terrains, capable of climbing steep inclines and managing side slopes effortlessly, even when fully loaded. They also perform well in water fording, able to cross depths of up to 30 inches without a kit, and up to 60 inches with the addition of a deep-water fording kit.
The M1151A1 is engineered for combat, offering enhanced protection and firepower, making it ideal for high-risk environments. In contrast, the M1097 series is designed for logistical support and troop transport.
The theft of these military vehicles highlights a critical vulnerability in security protocols. It underscores the need for comprehensive measures to protect military assets from unauthorized access and potential misuse. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and the implementation of advanced security technologies to safeguard vital equipment and ensure operational readiness also during unprecedentedly challenging times like those of the current, deadly Los Angeles wildfires’.
Featured photo shows the M1151 Humvee, whose advanced variant — the M1151A1 — was one of the two models of the three Humvees that were stolen at California Army Reserve on Wednesday. In the photo, the M1151 drives by the crowd during the Marine Corps Air Station Air Show above Beaufort, S.C., April 12, 2015. Public domain image — U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Olivia G. Ortiz/Released – https://www.dvidshub.net/image/1870039
