In today’s military, technology has revolutionized war. As a result, everything from tanks and armored personnel carriers to light utility vehicles are used to make quick strikes on the battlefield and rely heavily on military power supplies such as an AC to DC converter to keep them working as well as possible. Because of this, it’s more important than ever to ensure equipment such as an electrical transformer is of the best quality possible when being used in these military vehicles. If you’re not in the military but still wish you could drive a really cool U.S. military vehicle, here are five that we’re sure could give you the thrill of a lifetime.
1. M1 Abrams
A third-generation tank that’s the main battle tank of the United States Army, the M1 Abrams has been upgraded with state-of-the-art electronics and armament to create a 21st-century war machine that’s unbeatable. To bring the M1 up-to-date technologically, a variety of military power supplies have been implemented to make it essentially a heavily-armed computer. Equipped with a commander’s thermal viewer, it also has a positional navigation system and a System Enhancement Package that includes digital maps, more compatible interfaces, and a new operating system.
2. M7 Bradley Fire Support Vehicle
Made to transport infantry personnel by way of armored protection, the M7 Bradley Fire Support Vehicle can hold a crew of three while transporting up to six other soldiers. One of the most important vehicles in U.S. military field operations, the M7 uses an AC to DC converter and other electronic components for its hybrid GPS navigation system, enabling it to easily check reference points and get to its destination in a quicker fashion. With an enhanced command and control communication system, it uses a digital interface to control its Tactical Operations Center and keep its two 400-amp generators operating efficiently.
3. M1127 Reconnaissance Vehicle
An armored personnel carrier that is relied upon more and more in today’s military, the M1127 Reconnaissance Vehicle can reach speeds up to 62 miles per hour while transporting up to seven soldiers. Relying on an electrical transformer for surveillance and intelligence operations, it has an advanced weapons and logistics center, with a .50 caliber gun or 40mm grenade launcher as its primary weapons system. Within its headquarters section, it has a long-range advance scout surveillance system, enabling it to conduct scouting operations using thermal night-time viewing systems. Needing a minimal amount of logistics support, the M1127 is considered a mainstay in U.S. military operations.
4. M1117 Armored Security Vehicle
Used by the Military Police Corps, the M1117 is one of the most-used armored vehicles in Iraq and Afghanistan. Primarily used for convoy security as well as a fighting vehicle, it has an MK19 grenade launcher and M2HB Browning Machine Gun, making it a very versatile vehicle that can be used in numerous fighting environments. Using an advanced air filtration system powered by a state-of-the-art electrical transformer, the M1117 possesses a limited capability to withstand chemical and biological attacks. Along with this, the vehicle also has a unique design in which the angle of the armor results in a lack of vertical surfaces, letting the M1117 deflect rocket-propelled grenades. With this design, the ASV is able to continue functioning even if it takes a direct RPG hit, making it one of the military’s most dependable and relied-upon vehicles in any conflict. Able to reach speeds of 70 miles per hour, it can also tread water up to five feet deep and negotiate side slopes of up to 30 percent.
5. Storm Search and Rescue Tactical Vehicle
An all-terrain light military vehicle used by the United States Air Force Pararescue units, the SSRTV is often used by Special Operations forces as a support vehicle in some of the most covert operations undertaken by the U.S. military. Equipped with an advanced navigation system, it can extend its range up to 350 miles and conduct operations at 10,000 feet above sea level if necessary. Able to run up to 100 miles per hour, it can climb a vertical grade of as much as 70 degrees, enabling it to be used in some of the most difficult terrains anywhere in the world. Known as the “Guardian Angel Weapon System,” it continues to be upgraded through the Aeronautical Systems Center, which equips it with the latest GPS computer systems and communications systems.
As technology continues to develop at warp speed, there is little doubt these and other U.S. military vehicles will be the world’s best when it comes to combat, search and rescue and other operations. Whether it’s an M1 Abrams tank rolling across the battlefield using advanced weapons systems or a Search and Rescue vehicle navigating mountainous terrain or flooded areas to rescue stranded or injured soldiers, these and other vehicles will continue to utilize military power supplies in new and innovative ways.