Ukrainian Marines received an upgraded HMMWV

30 November, 2023 HMMWV converted into a medevac vehicle, 2023. Photo credits: Iron Nuts The Ukrainian military received a volunteer-developed medical evacuation vehicle based on the HMMWV military SUV.

The news was announced on social media. Within the Kabul project, Ukrainian engineers from the Iron Nuts team created an armored medical evacuation vehicle based on the HMMWV military SUV. The vehicle is designed to transport the wounded directly from the battlefield to the evacuation point, where an ambulance will meet it.

In view of the purpose, the vehicle is equipped with minimal medical equipment but received protection of the cabin and the med bay. According to the developers, a two-layer Hardox 500 Plate armor was installed on the vehicle, which should withstand shelling from 7.62 caliber machine guns.

HMMWV converted into a medevac vehicle, 2023. Photo credits: Iron Nuts

Also, an armored glass was installed on the vehicle, and the interior was sheathed with Kevlar canvas to protect against debris. The developers noted that despite the high weight of the welded armor and equipment, they managed to "fit" the weight limits declared by the vehicle manufacturer.

In particular, the vehicle is equipped with a reinforced rear axle from the manufacturer to transport the heavy loads. The medical compartment of the vehicle can accommodate two lying wounded and one medic who will accompany them. It is equipped with a heater, special lighting, and all the necessary connectors to power the equipment.

Compartment for the wounded in the HMMWV-based medevac vehicle. Photo credits: Iron Nuts

Inside, there is also a monitor that will display the indicators of medical equipment, such as oxygen supply to the wounded. It is reported that the vehicle was transferred to one of the units of the Ukrainian Marines and has already been used to evacuate wounded soldiers from the battlefield.

HMMWV-based medevac in use by Ukrainian marines, November 2023.

Photo credits: Iron Nuts

The Ukrainian Research and Production Association < > is also developing a medical evacuation vehicle for the Ukrainian military based on the Kozak-2M1 armored vehicle.