Mercedes-Benz short-bonnet trucks vs RMMV HX range of tactical trucks

Truck^[source]

FR layout^[source]

Freightliner FL-Series (in-direct)^[source]

West Germany^[source]Inventory Origin column; table 9, row 8, cell 4; revision 1375919249; retrieved 2026-10-01

Tactical military truck^[source]

Austria (see History )^[source]

2007–present^[source]

See Operators^[source]

RMMV^[source]

2002^[source]

2005–present^[source]

19,535 est. Confirmed orders, not including options/remaining available call-offs on framework contracts, or any figure for Austrian framework contract. Est. 350 for Norway/Sweden as numbers currently unclear, and 270 estimate for Colombia, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Turkey, U.S., UAE, Ukraine (not including cascaded used/surplus) and Vietnam as no accurate data available)^[source]

HX60 4×4, HX58 6×6, HX61 6×6, HX77 8×8, HX81 HET 8×8, 40M 4×4 (HX2), 42M 6×6 (HX2), 44M 8×8 (HX2), 45M 10×10 (HX2)^[source]

17,000 kg (on chassis cab ; approximate 15,000 kg cargo payload)^[source]

ZF 12 AS 23010D AS-Tronic (automated) with 12 forward and 2 reverse gears; MAN G172 two-speed transfer case with engageable front axle(s) drive^[source]

Parabolic leaf springs with progressively acting rubber assistors and hydraulic telescopic shock absorbers (front); inverted multi-leaf trapezoidal springs with radius rods (rear); anti-roll bar on second rear axle, rear^[source]

400 litres^[source]

power-assisted on front tandem^[source]

range of purpose-designed tactical military trucks^[source]

The designation system most commonly applied to HX range trucks is that of MAN/RMMVs internal model designation. There is no sequencing within model designations, and from the three original HX models released, the HX60 was a 4×4 chassis, the HX58 was a 6×6 chassis, and the HX77 an 8×8 chassis. On HX2 range models an additional M (Military) is included in model designation, while the HX is dropped from individual model nomenclature. The current HX2 designations are 40M (4×4), 42M (6×6), 44M (8×8), and 45M (10x×0). There is also the HX81, a Heavy Equipment Transporter (HET) that is technically a HX/HX2 hybrid. Designations for HX3 models have yet to be released.^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Description (HX/HX2); only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

In addition to internal model designation each model has technical designation nomenclature that is broadly comparable to that of MAN's commercial product line. The base designation identifies permissible gross vehicle weight and engine power output, the latter figure rounded to the nearest 10 hp (7.457 kW). For example, the HX range model 18.330 has a technically permissible gross vehicle weight rating of 18,000 kg and an engine power output of 326 hp (243 kW). Until the Bundeswehr's WLS UTF/GTF awards these designations did not appear on the trucks themselves, and for the first time there are derivations of internal model designations with the 44M being available as the 38.450 (unprotected configuration) and 41.450 (protected configuration).^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Description (HX/HX2); only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

HX trucks are of a conventional design and are based on a single piece C-section ladder-frame chassis of profiles determined by a mix of GVWR, intended usage, and configuration. The original HX range use chassis from the heavier elements of MAN's commercial TG WorldWide heavy truck range. For the HX2 range a purpose-designed chassis with 400 mm of torsional twist is used. Wheelbase options for the HX range are extensive, the range including two-, three-, four-, and five-axle chassis.^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Description (HX/HX2); only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

Gross vehicle weights (GVWs) range from 18,000 kg for a 4×4 chassis to 50,000 kg for a five-axle chassis, with the HX81 8×8 tractor truck having a gross combination weight (GCW) of up to 130,000 kg. Payload varies by role and configuration, but for rigid chassis actual maximum load on chassis ranges from around 8,000 kg to 30,000 kg. In certain instances, and particularly with single-tyred axles, GVW ratings can be restricted.^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Description (HX/HX2); only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

HX trucks are fitted with MAN/RMMV's modular military-specific cab, this tracing back to the Category 1 trucks that entered service in 1976. The evolution of this cab used for HX models is 290 mm deeper than preceding designs, and has more than 600 litres of gross stowage space in the rear. The interior of the walk-through cab is primarily steel or washable plastic/vinyl. Two types of modular detachable hard-top roof are available, a standard flat roof or a version with extended height for the optional air-conditioning equipment, plus an NBC filtration system for the over-pressured IAC cab option if required. The reinforced roof can take the weight of two soldiers and the recoil forces of a 12.7 mm heavy machine gun in a ring-mount. A riot protection kit is available for the cab.^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Description (HX/HX2); only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

To meet increasing demands for crew protection on deployed operations the HX range was designed from the outset with protection options in mind. Appliqué protection kits, for which vehicles are prepared to accept at the production stage, were developed for the cab. Known as the Modular Armour Cabin (MAC), these kits offer protection according to STANAG 4569. Weight of these kits is about 1,500 kg and the hard-top remains removable for air-transport if required. A swap-cab armouring solution known as the Integrated Armour Cabin (IAC) is also available. The IAC was originally developed in conjunction with Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) for the SX range of trucks, this is suited to models with twin front axles only. A Rheinmetall-developed IAC option is available, this is suitable for all HX range trucks, depending on front axle rating and protection levels.^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Description (HX/HX2); only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

MAN water-cooled diesel engines of various power outputs and emissions compliance are used across the range. The four primary engines used are the D0836, D2066, D2676, and D2868. All engines are qualified for operation with F34 fuel, and across the range power outputs vary from 326 hp (243 kW ) for a EURO 4 or 5 emissions compliant version of the six-cylinder 6.871-litre D0836 fitted to the HX60, to 680 hp (507 kW) for a EURO 5 emissions compliant version of the V10 18.273-litre D2868, this fitted to the HX81 heavy equipment transporter. Emissions compliance options are dependent on engine model, build year, and territory, but are currently EURO 2 or EURO 5, the latter requiring fuel additives.^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Description (HX/HX2); only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

For HX2 models, the 40M 4×4 retains the AS Mid gearbox, and while the 42M 6×6 and 44M 8×8 originally retained the AS Tronic, this is now superseded by the 12F/2R automated TraXon gearbox. The 45M 10×10 is fitted as standard with a ZF Ecolife seven-speed automated transmission with torque convertor and primary retarder, this an option for the 42M and 44M. As a further option, a fully automatic transmission can be fitted to most models. All HX models feature a MAN two-speed transfer case, with a neutral position an option for the transfer case.^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Description (HX/HX2); only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

Drive axles are MAN single tyre hub-reduction, and with the exception of the heavier tractor units which are full-time all-wheel drive for traction and torque distribution reasons, all models have selectable front wheel drive. All axles have cross-axle differential locks and there are longitudinal differential locks in rear (and front on 8×8 and 10×10 chassis) axle combinations and the transfer case . Axle weight ratings are 9000 kg or 11,000 kg for front axles, and 13,000 kg for rear axles with single wheels/tyres.^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Description (HX/HX2); only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

Front steer-drive axles (including the 2nd axle on 8×8/10×10 chassis) are sprung by a combination of parabolic leaf springs with progressively acting rubber assistors and hydraulic telescopic shock absorbers . Steering is ZF hydraulically actuated and steering lock on the front axle is 36°, steering lock on the second axle is 18°. On the five-axle 45M the rearmost axle contra-steers. Rear axles are sprung by inverted multi-leaf trapezoidal springs with a radius rod and an anti-roll bar . A conventional rear bogie set-up is employed for 6×6 and 8×8 chassis. The 45M 10×10 features hydropneumatic suspension for the three rearmost axles. Anti-roll bars are fitted front and/or rear on an as-required basis.^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Description (HX/HX2); only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

All models can climb a 60% gradient , traverse a 40% sideslope, and have an approach angle of 40 degrees. Fording was initially 750 mm of water without preparation, this increasing to 1.5 m with preparation. For HX2 models this increased to a standard 1.5 m without additional preparation. Climatic operational range is from -32 °C to +49 °C without additional preparation, with -46 °C an option.^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Description (HX/HX2); only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

The flat-paneled military cab of the HX/HX2 models has been redesigned for the HX3. A new single piece flat mine blast protecting floor is used, this allowing for standard commercial seats to be used for the crew, these with five-point harnesses if required. Air-conditioning is now relocated from the roof to within the new dashboard assembly, the compressed air cylinders now moved from the chassis frame rails to the roof. All stowage boxes are watertight, the HX3 capable of fording in up to 1.5 m of salt water. Other off-road performance criteria includes a vertical step of 590 mm and an approach angle of 40 degrees. The HX3-specific chassis frame allows for up to 400 mm of torsional twist.^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Description (HX/HX2); only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

On 6 November 2017, Rheinmetall announced the company was a main sponsor for high-altitude record-breaking attempt that had commenced that day. Using two HX range trucks (a 340 hp 4×4 40M and a 440 hp 6×6 58) the expedition aimed to reach the highest point on earth accessible to motor vehicles – the 6890 m-tall Ojos del Salado , the world's highest active volcano, located on the border of Chile and Argentina. In order to set a new world record the vehicles would have to reach an altitude of at least 6,690 metres above sea level.^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · World record attempt - Chile; only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

On 19 December it was announced the altitude record attempt had been called off at a height of 6,150 m for a combination of factors, including an insurmountable rock barrier and adverse weather conditions. The team had, however, built two refuge huts during their ascent, the highest of these built at 6,100 m, a record.^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · World record attempt - Chile; only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

An early HX2 40M at a RMMV media demonstration in Germany^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Gallery; only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

A 42M 6×6 during German Bundeswehr UTF trials^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Gallery; only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

A 44M 8×8 during German Bundeswehr UTF trials^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Gallery; only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

44M 8×8 of the Slovenian Army . As later production trucks, these carry HX38.540 nomenclature^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Gallery; only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

44M in Canadian ERC configuration^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Gallery; only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

An Australian 45M 10×10 configured as a heavy recovery vehicle^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Gallery; only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

2,536 HX models were ordered in July 2013 as the Phase 3B part of project Land 121. Australia was the first customer to receive HX2 variants. The first vehicle handover occurred on 7 April 2016, when 6 HX77 (8×8) and 6 40M (4×4) were handed over. In July 2018, a further 1,044 were ordered, as Land 121 Phase 5B, an extension of Phase 3B. In February 2020, an Initial Operating Capability for Phase 3B trucks was declared. In April 2021, around 800 trucks were left to build and deliver. Final deliveries occurred in 2024.^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Operators / Other operators; only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

Just over 75 HX trucks with a framework contract in place from 2023. 20 HX77 8×8 configured with a load handling system and armoured cab were delivered in 2006. 20 42M 6×6 and four HX81 HETs were ordered around 2017/2018. Five 44M 8×8 (2 x TEP 90; 3 x heavy recovery) were on order as of 2019. 24 medium recovery vehicles (mittleres Bergefahrzeug HX2 (mBgeFzg)) were delivered in 2022. Austria's Bundesbeschaffung GmbH Wien procurement organisation signed a seven-year framework agreement in May 2023 for up to 1,375 vehicles, with a potential order value of up to EUR525 million. The agreement allows for the delivery of HX range trucks plus TG MIL (TGM and TGS).^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Operators / Other operators; only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

In November 2024, Canada's Enhanced Recovery Capability (ERC) requirement was awarded to Rheinmetall Canada. The award includes two contracts, a five-year purchase agreement valued at $325 million CAD for 85 heavy recovery trucks and 24 armoured cabs (with an option for additional orders), and an eight-year $30.4 million CAD support contract with options periods up to 16 years. The first trucks are to be delivered in 2027. The HX2 range trucks are 44M 8×8, equipped with a recovery package, based around a Miller 1050M rotator and a Rotzler TR200 capstan-type main winch, with a 25 tonne single line pull for 103 m of cable. The rotator is fitted with twin Tarvos TA15 drum winches, rated at 10 tonnes on the bottom layer and 6.6 tonnes on the top layer.^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Operators / Other operators; only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

Just over 200 HX trucks to all branches of the armed forces from late 2006. Totals include 113 HX77 8×8 fitted with a load handling system, 83 HX77 8×8 in conventional cargo/tanker truck configurations, about five HX58 6×6 in tractor unit configuration to the Danish Air Force, and four HX60 4×4 in container/cargo configuration.^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Operators / Other operators; only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

HX2 44M are used as the basis of Egypt's IRIS-T SLM medium-range ground-based air defense (GBAD) missile system designed and manufactured by the German company Diehl. The initial production batch of this order was diverted to Ukraine.^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Operators / Other operators; only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

Contract award to Rába . Production of Rába H-14, H-18, and H-25 trucks commenced in 2004, these initially locally designed chassis fitted with MAN engines, associated components including cooling system and the MAN modular military cab. Later production was HX CKD using some locally sourced components such as axles. About 300 examples were built using components supplied between 2004 and 2006, with a further 250 assembled from CKD kits delivered from 2007. Hungary also received around 80 RMMV HX77 8×8 trucks, plus around 40 44M and 45M HX2 models as support vehicles for Lynx and Leopard, plus system carrier roles.^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Operators / Other operators; only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

Used for the chassis of Type 19 155 mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer . At least 44 8×8 chassis have been ordered since 2019, with a further 14 to be ordered in 2025.^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Operators / Other operators; only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

The Norwegian Defence Logistics Organisation (NDLO) announced on 31 March 2014 it had signed two contracts with RMMV, an initial purchase contract and a through-life logistics support contract. Norway's initial order calls for about 120 HX2 and TG MIL range trucks, with HX2 variants accounting for the bulk of the order. It includes 95 HX 8×8 and eight 45M 10×10 recovery. First deliveries occurred during 2018. As of April 2021 around 250 HX range trucks were thought to have been ordered by Norway and Sweden combined. This is a framework agreement that includes Sweden and the original intention was to buy up to 2,000 military logistics vehicles before 2026.^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Operators / Other operators; only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

6 units delivered in 2024 WFEL Dry Support Bridges mounted on Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicle (RMMV) 45M 10×10 heavy duty off-road military trucks acquired as part of the Philippine Army's Combat Engineering Equipment - Dry Support Bridges Acquisition Project, which is a Horizon 2 phase project under the RAFPMP and awarded to UK's WFEL as part of G2G deal between the Philippines DND and UK MOD.^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Operators / Other operators; only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

Singapore operates around 60 44M 8×8 with recovery hampers provided by Miller. Further trucks in for use in a system carrier role are understood to be on order as of 2024.^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Operators / Other operators; only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

In exchange for sending 28 Slovenian M55S tanks (upgraded T-55 tanks) to Ukraine, Germany transferred over 40 44M trucks in WLS configuration to Slovenia in December 2022. These were from German Army stocks.^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Operators / Other operators; only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

In May 2014 Sweden placed an initial order with RMMV for trucks. The initial order was for 215 trucks, of which 62 were HX2, the bulk of these 44M 8×8. Deliveries commenced during 2017. In 2018 another 40 HX2 were ordered as a system carrier for the Patriot air defense system, and in 2019 an initial 24 (now 48) HX2 were ordered as a carrier for the ammunition handling system belonging to the Archer artillery system . Swedish orders (excluding Archer) are under a framework agreement that includes Norway , and the original intention of this agreement was to buy up to 2,000 military logistics vehicles before 2026. By November 2024 around 350 HX range trucks are thought to have been ordered by Sweden and Norway combined.^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Operators / Other operators; only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

Ukraine has received a selection of HX trucks, the total number of which is thought to be around 350. These have included surplus HX60 from UK stocks, and used 40M from Austria (total around 200), around 75 mainly 44M from German stocks in WLS and system carrier configurations, and around 90 HX81 HETs with semi-trailers that were originally destined for Saudi Arabia and delivered by July 2024.^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Operators / Other operators; only the objects and conditions stated in this passage

In October 2004 the UK Defence Procurement Agency (DPA) selected the MAN ERF UK Ltd proposal for the UK armed forces' Support Vehicle requirement. A contract award followed in March 2005. The base contract award covered 5,165 vehicles and 69 recovery trailers. The first vehicles entered service in June 2007. Support Vehicle contract deliveries to the UK Ministry of Defence totalled 7,415 + 69 trailers (7,484). This figure including a contract option, plus some delivery revisions and additional orders. The Support Vehicle contract called for two model ranges to be delivered to the MoD, SX and HX, with a >90% quantity bias towards HX models. In 2023, the UK confirmed a surplus of HX60 trucks, with some of these supplied to Ukraine. In 2023/2024, the UK received 500 44M from German Army stocks in WLS configuration.^[source]RMMV HX range of tactical trucks · Operators / Other operators; only the objects and conditions stated in this passage