Jeeps have been rolling into battle zones, outposts, and supply lines since World War II—and they haven’t stopped since. What started as a hastily developed answer to a wartime need evolved into one of the most recognizable and versatile military tools on wheels. Over the decades, Jeep models changed with the times, but their purpose stayed the same: go anywhere, survive anything, and get the job done.
This article walks through the various Jeep models that have served in uniform, from early prototypes to modern tactical machines. Each one played a role in shaping military mobility and has its own story worth telling.
Willys MB (1941–1945)
The Willys MB kicked off the Jeep legacy during WWII as the go-to light reconnaissance vehicle. With a 60-hp Go Devil engine and four-wheel drive, it was simple, rugged, and incredibly versatile.
More than 360,000 were built, with Ford producing additional units as the GPW. The MB’s flat fenders and utilitarian form became icons of the Allied war effort. Whether hauling officers, wounded troops, or supplies, the MB did it all—and looked like it was ready for more.
Ford GPW (1941–1945)
Ford’s GPW was nearly identical to the Willys MB but stamped with Ford’s touch and built to support massive production demands. It featured the same drivetrain, including the 134-ci Go Devil engine and T-84 transmission.
Over 270,000 GPWs were produced, filling the same combat roles as the MB. Today, GPWs are recognized for subtle frame differences and Ford-scripted parts. They’re just as important to WWII history as their Willys counterparts.
Willys M38 (1950–1952)
The Korean War called for updates, and the M38 delivered. It looked like a postwar MB but brought better electrical systems, waterproofing, and a beefier frame.
Powered by the L-head 134 engine, the M38 could wade through water and survive battlefield abuse. Only a few thousand were made, making them a rarer but essential step in Jeep evolution.
Willys M38A1 (1952–1971)
The M38A1 introduced the curved fenders and higher hood needed to fit the Hurricane F-134 engine. It was the first military Jeep to break away from the flat-fender look.
With better torque and off-road ability, the M38A1 saw long service through Korea and into Vietnam. Its design would go on to inspire the civilian CJ-5, cementing its place in Jeep history.
M151 MUTT (1959–1982)
The M151 MUTT was a leap forward, with unibody construction and independent suspension. Ford led development, but production later included AM General and Kaiser.
Powered by a 71-hp four-cylinder, the M151 offered great handling but had early safety concerns. Later versions fixed those, and it remained in service into the ’80s. Its agility made it a favorite despite its flaws.
Kaiser M715 (1967–1969)
Based on the civilian Gladiator pickup, the M715 “Five-Quarter” ton truck was all business. It had a 230-ci inline-six and a beefy military-grade frame.
Designed to replace the Dodge M37, the M715 was roomier but suffered in reliability under harsh field use. Still, its aggressive look and heavy-duty setup made it a postwar standout.
Jeep CJ-10A (1981–1985)
The CJ-10A never saw combat but served as an aircraft tug. It featured a diesel engine and automatic transmission and was mostly used on Air Force bases.
Stripped-down and purpose-built, it was durable for what it did—tow planes and haul ground gear. Rare and obscure, it proves not all military Jeeps were built for the battlefield.
AM General HMMWV (1984–Present)
The HMMWV, or Humvee, replaced the Jeep in most frontline duties starting in the ’80s. It came with a 6.2L or 6.5L diesel V8 and was built for high clearance and modularity.
It wasn’t a Jeep by name, but it carried on the tradition. The Humvee could go anywhere, haul anything, and survive nearly everything—exactly what military brass had in mind.
Jeep J8 (2008–Present)
Based on the Wrangler JK, the J8 is a purpose-built military version used mainly outside the U.S. With heavy-duty axles and a 2.8L diesel engine, it’s made for rough terrain and long hauls.
The J8 isn’t flashy, but it’s tough and reliable. It’s used in border patrol, convoy escort, and other light military roles where mobility matters more than armor.
Jeep Gladiator XMT (Concept)
The Gladiator XMT is Jeep’s modern concept for a military truck, developed with AM General. It takes the civilian Gladiator platform and adds military-grade upgrades.
Still in prototype form, it hints at Jeep’s future role in military transport—if the Pentagon comes calling. It’s a fresh take on what a modern Jeep could do under a camo wrap.
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