M1070, Truck, Tractor, 8×8 (HET)

M1070, Truck, Tractor, 8×8 (HET). . , In the late 1980s it was realized that with the continued development of the M1 Abrams tank, the M911/M747 tank transporter had reached its limit. Testing began for a replacement, and in 1993 the Oshkosh-designed M1070 entered service with the US army. Paired with the M1000 trailer, their functioned was to transport, deploy, and recover the M1 tank and other heavy equipment. The new tractor had several improvements; central tire inflation, 5-speed automatic transmission, front and rear turning axles for better maneuverability, and an enlarged cabin that allowed for two crewmembers plus four tank crewmen.

The M1070 first saw service in Bosnia and Kosovo peacekeeping operations, but would prove its worth during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Based in Kuwait at Camp Arifjan, HETS would travel throughout Iraq moving armored vehicles to required destinations. To further protect crews, the trucks were outfitted with a Crew Protection Kit manufactured by Armor Holdings around the cab and fire suppressant blankets around the fuel tanks. The M1070 HET proved to be one of the safest vehicles operating in Iraq.

War-altered vehicles such as the M1070 HET were not rotated back to the States, but were transferred from unit to unit. This particular HET was last used by the 1st Sustainment Brigade conducting retrograde operations in Operation New Dawn before coming to the Museum in 2011.

Specifications , Manufacturer: Oshkosh , Engine: Detroit Diesel Model 8V92TA , Horsepower: 500 hp , Speed: , 45 mph (road) , 30 mph (70 ton payload) , Range: 300 miles , Weight: 41,000 pounds (Unarmored) , Trailer Payload: 140,000 pounds