MK48-18 - Dropside Cargo Rear Body Unit

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History

The Marine Corps fielded the heavy tactical vehicle system during the mid 1980s. The Logistics Vehicle System (LVS) is a modular system consisting of a MK48 front power unit and, originally, four interchangeable rear body units (RBU). The front power unit and rear body units are joined by a hydraulically powered articulated joint that assists in steering the vehicle and allows a degree of independent movement between the front and rear units for more mobility. The articulated joint transfers automotive power to the RBU axles and hydraulic power for any hydraulically operated equipment. The completed units are 8x8 systems with two front steering axles. The LVS has an off road payload of 12.5 tons and an on road payload of 22.5 tons.

Description

The MK48 Front Power Unit is an enclosed cab, diesel powered, automatic transmission, 4x4 vehicle that provides all automotive and hydraulic power for the LVS combinations.

Since the initial fielding, 325 MK14s have been converted to the MK18 Self-loading Container and Ribbon Bridge Transporter. The MK18 is capable of self loading and off-loading fully loaded 20 foot standard containers and the ribbon bridge interior and ramp bays and standard bridge boat. An additional 164 MK14s will be converted during 1996 and 1997 to the MK18A1 configuration. The MK18A1 differs from the MK18 in the loading and off-loading mechanism.