The high-mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicle (HMMWV or Humvee) Saber is a next-generation light tactical vehicle developed by AM General, a military vehicle manufacturer based in the US.
The redesigned tactical vehicle is equipped to handle multiple mission sets. It can be transported by land, sea and air and is compatible with highway, rail, marine and air transport modes, including both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft.
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The Humvee Saber vehicle is available in two concepts: the Humvee Saber Blade Edition and the Humvee Saber Reinforced Security, with the former offering offensive and defensive capabilities.
In September 2023, AM General exhibited the Humvee Saber vehicle at the Defence Security and Equipment International (DSEI) tradeshow in London, UK.
Humvee Saber light tactical vehicle design and features
The Humvee Saber light tactical vehicle has a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 6,396kg (14,100lb).
It is available in two, four and six-passenger variants, with additional payload capacity for personnel and mission equipment.
The vehicle leverages the Humvee 13-Series chassis, ensuring enhanced commonality, simplified maintenance, and more efficient fleet support.
The Humvee Saber provides 360° kinetic energy threat protection and under-vehicle blast threat protection for the front and rear wheels and centre undercarriage.
The vehicle also features blast seats, a floating floor and transparent armour. In addition, it includes an optional turret ring and a rear access door.
Performance and propulsion
The Humvee Saber vehicle is equipped with a 205hp 6.5L V8 turbocharged diesel engine, a four-speed electronically controlled transmission, and a two-speed transfer case with a high ratio of 1:1 and a low ratio of 2.72:1.
With a fuel capacity of 95l (25 gallons) and a fuel range of 402km (250 miles), it operates on a dual voltage system of 14V and 28V.
Command and control
The Humvee Saber vehicle offers optional features such as an anti-lock brake system, electronic stability control and traction control.
It features a heavy-duty suspension, a 48° angle of approach, a 37° angle of departure, a 25° ramp breakover angle, a 60% grade capability, a 30% side slope capability and the ability to clear a 30.5cm (12in) vertical obstacle.
Weapon systems
The Humvee Saber offers various weapon system options, including a gunner’s protection kit (GVW), a manual turret and an international GVW upgrade kit.
Humvee Saber Blade Edition concept vehicle details
The Humvee Saber Blade Edition concept is engineered to boost lethality and protection for modern warfare. It features a proprietary cabin design that enhances protection against kinetic energy threats.
The concept vehicle provides precision strikes with operator-selectable low-collateral effects, automated waypoint navigation and effectiveness against both stationary and moving targets, along with a patented wave-off and recommit feature.
It offers a range of 10km and an endurance of 15 minutes.
Weapon systems onboard Humvee Saber Blade Edition
The Humvee Saber Blade Edition integrates AeroVironment’s Switchblade loitering munitions and the Hornet Air Guard remote-controlled weapon system for enhanced precision strike capabilities and counter-unmanned aerials system (CUAS) technology.
It is equipped with Switchblade 300 and Switchblade 600 loitering munitions, which offer rapidly deployable, precision strike capabilities for targeting beyond visual range.
The Hornet Air Guard enhances the Hornet RCWS with anti-drone detection and neutralisation. It adds air-burst ammunition and a separate drone detection system for better surveillance, defence and protection.
The reinforced security concept vehicle, featuring aerospace company Elta North America’s modular anti-drone system kit (MADSK), integrates the OTM (on the move) defence in depth system.
The MADSK OTM is designed to manage all stages of the CUAS kill chain, including detection, tracking, identification and deterrence/defeat of Group 1-3 UAS systems, all while operating at manoeuvre speeds.
Humvee Saber Reinforced Security concept vehicle
The Humvee Saber Reinforced Security concept vehicle focuses on enhancing survivability with a tough and capable light tactical vehicle.
AM General incorporated the MBrace airbag system into this concept vehicle in partnership with safety systems provider IMMI. This system, integrated into a multi-point seat belt, deploys within a fraction of a second to safeguard a soldier’s head and neck.
In addition, AM General worked with defence and security company ArmorWorks to incorporate ArmorVision and advanced modular blast seats into this concept vehicle.
ArmorVision offers a lighter and more cost-effective alternative to outdated transparent armour, while the advanced modular blast seats deliver enhanced blast protection and durability.
