The US military’s Humvee successor has completed its first mission in a new role that will see the versatile vehicle support the security forces protecting the country’s nuclear arsenal.
The 90th Missile Security Forces squadron defenders of the US Air Force carried out the inaugural operational mission utilizing the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) to support launch facility maintenance near Harrisburg, Nebraska, April 24.
As part of its initiative to modernize and strengthen the capabilities of defenders and safeguard one of the country’s most crucial assets – its nuclear arsenal – Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) has introduced the JLTV to replace the outdated Up-Armored High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (Humvee).
Staff Sgt. Jeffrey Daniels and Senior Airman Zion Hill, part of the 90 MSFS maintenance support team, carried out the first-ever real-world operation utilizing the JLTV for Air Force Global Strike Command.
“It is built like a tank,” Hill said. “When you climb into the Humvee, you are stepping back in time 20 years. The JLTV is like driving the Batmobile into the future to better defend our nation.”
“It is a night and day difference. When you climb inside a Humvee you are walking into a historical box,” Joseph Struzik, 90th Missile Security Operations Squadron officer said. “You will see old analog gauges, a classic steering wheel, a center console with a radio. Whereas, the JLTV gives defenders a better tool to perform their nuclear security duties.”
“The JLTV is an extremely robust and versatile vehicle, offering improved point of view, responsive suspension systems, increased power and modern safety features,” said Lt. Col. William Brokaw, 90 MSFS commander.
JLTVs complexity demands investment in training to ensure the safety and competence of operators. As part of the training program, all operators are required to complete a 40-hour course that covers classroom instruction and hands-on familiarization and driving exercises.
“Humvee drivers have to adjust to it while the JLTV adjusts to the driver,” said Struzik.
