By Mark Houlahan

Military vehicles have consistently played a large role in determining the outcomes of wars, with armies equipped with the most advanced machinery often gaining the upper hand. Conflicts between countries on land and in the air and sea have relied on cutting-edge military vehicles, driving the countries involved to boost production and innovation, especially during periods of war. The focus on improving vehicle durability and performance became particularly pronounced during World War II. While a global conflict of that scale has not reoccurred, military vehicles continue to be essential in modern warfare, as seen in the Syrian civil war, Afghanistan war, and international efforts to combat terrorism.

The jeep is one of the most iconic military vehicles. Developed for military purposes, jeeps played a crucial role during World War II, modernizing European countries' systems of transporting supplies. The U.S. Army needed a more efficient method to move essential items to its front-line soldiers, so it contracted private auto manufacturers to produce these reconnaissance vehicles and brought them to Europe.

• History of Jeep in the Military: Learn how the U.S. military first deployed jeeps and how these vehicles were used to transport soldiers and supplies in World War II.
• Dodge WC-54: This vehicle served as an ambulance for the U.S. Army during World War II.
• Early Military Cars: Although primitive compared to today's advanced military vehicles, early military cars were significantly faster than horses, providing the Allies with a strategic advantage during World War II.

Military trucks are highly valued by both organized military forces and other armed groups due to their versatility and ruggedness. These all-terrain vehicles are designed to navigate challenging environments, from desert sands to dense jungles. During World War II, they were essential for transporting troops, with GMC and Jeep being the primary suppliers. Today, however, one of the most commonly seen trucks in battle is the Toyota Hilux, which is used by militaries as well as many insurgent groups.

• Ford F-350 Pickup Trucks: These heavy-duty Ford trucks, popular on the home front, are also part of the U.S. military's fleet of vehicles.
• Hilux Pickup Trucks in Demand With Foreign Fighters: Insurgent groups often opt for armed Toyota Hilux pickup trucks, as they are a cost-effective and versatile alternative to more advanced military vehicles.
• The Future of Infantry Squad Vehicles (ISVs): Based on the Chevy Colorado pickup truck, these vehicles have been a crucial part of U.S. Army operations.

Since World War I, military tanks have been playing a crucial role in warfare thanks to their ability to traverse rough terrain. Tanks are heavily armored and equipped with powerful weapons, making them formidable opponents in combat. One well-known example is the Sherman tank, which gained fame during World War II.

• Features and History of Tanks: This page contains everything you need to know about military tanks, including what makes them important in front-line combat.
• Military Tanks in World War II: The introduction of the Sherman and Pershing tanks mid-war had a decisive impact on several key battles.
• The M-48 Patton Tank: Weighing nearly 50 tons, the Patton tank was a key asset during the Vietnam War.
• The Army's Ground Combat Vehicle Program: The U.S. Army has developed tanks with reinforced hulls specifically designed to withstand the destructive power of improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

World War II and the Vietnam War were characterized by bombers and fighter jets soaring through the skies. With the ability to attack from above, soldiers gained a new tactical advantage, reshaping the battlefield. Today, military aircraft are faster and quieter, enabling the Air Force to conduct stealth operations with greater efficiency.

• How the F-15 Works: The F-15 is one of the most famous fighter jets and has been around since the 1970s. While it's a small jet plane, it has a perfect combat record.
• Air Force One: "Air Force One" is technically a call sign, not a plane, and this call sign is used for any plane that the president is flying aboard. But to most people, this phrase refers to a specific plane, a Boeing VC-25 operated by the White House Military Office.
• F-35 Fighter Jet: Learn about the impressive features of one of the most advanced and lethal fighter jets in the world.
• Black Hawk Helicopter: The Black Hawk remains the Army's primary utility helicopter, essential for combat and reconnaissance missions.