The High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV), commonly known as the Humvee, is a family of light, four-wheel drive, military trucks and utility vehicles produced by AM General. It has largely supplanted the roles formerly served by smaller, less protected light tactical vehicles and jeeps. The vehicle was first produced in the late 20th century and has been widely adopted by military forces around the world for various purposes.

Specifications:
Weight: Approximately 5,200–5,900 lb (2,400–2,700 kg) (curb weight)
Payload: 2,500 lb (1,100 kg) or more depending on the variant
Length: 15 ft (4.6 m)
Width: 7.5 ft (2.3 m)
Height: 6 ft – 8 ft (1.8 m – 2.4 m), depending on the variant
Engine: 6.2 L (380 cu in) V8 diesel, later models feature a 6.5 L (400 cu in) turbo diesel engine
Transmission: 3-speed/4-speed automatic
Suspension: Independent 4×4
Speed: 55–70 mph (89–113 km/h) (governed), depending on the variant and payload
Range: 275–350 mi (443–563 km)

Variants:
The HMMWV has several variants designed for various military applications, including:

• M998 Cargo/Troop Carrier
• M1025 Armament Carrier
• M1035 Soft-Top Ambulance
• M1043 Armament Carrier
• M1097 Heavy HMMWV Avenger
• M1123 Expanded Capacity Vehicle (ECV)
• M1151 Enhanced Armament Carrier
• And many more specialized versions, some of which are equipped with weapons, communication systems, and other specialized equipment.

Roles and Applications:
The Humvee is a versatile vehicle and serves multiple roles such as:

• Troop carrier
• Ambulance
• Cargo transport
• Armament carrier (machine guns, missile launchers, etc.)
• Command and control
• Reconnaissance

Armor and Upgrades:
Initially, the HMMWV was not designed to serve as an armored combat vehicle but was rather intended for personnel and light cargo transport behind the lines. However, with evolving military needs, especially during conflicts like the Iraq War, up-armored versions were developed to provide better protection against IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices), small arms fire, and mines. The M1114 and M1151 are examples of up-armored variants.

Deployment and Usage:
The HMMWV has been deployed by the United States military and various other armed forces worldwide. It has seen service in numerous conflicts, including the Gulf War, the Iraq War, the War in Afghanistan, and many peacekeeping and humanitarian missions. The vehicle has proved invaluable for its mobility, adaptability, and versatility in various terrains and combat scenarios.

Successor:
The Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) has been developed as a successor to the HMMWV, addressing many of the older vehicle’s protection and mobility limitations.

Civilian Version:
The Humvee’s design also inspired a civilian version, known as the Hummer H1, produced by General Motors under the brand name “Hummer”.

Conclusion:
The HMMWV remains a symbol of military vehicular design, with its versatility and adaptability enabling it to serve in various roles and scenarios. Although newer vehicles are being introduced to replace it in certain roles, the Humvee continues to be a workhorse for many military forces around the world.