The HI MOB MULTI-PURP WHLD VEH (HMMWV) program is a key line item in the Army's Other Procurement budget, specifically under Tactical and Support Vehicles. The primary goal of this program is to procure new production armored or armor-capable High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles (HMMWVs) for the Army. These vehicles are essential for modernizing the Army's fleet, enabling the divestiture of older, non-armor-capable HMMWVs, and ensuring that both active and reserve components are equipped to meet current operational requirements.
The objectives of the HMMWV procurement are centered on enhancing force protection, mobility, and versatility for a wide range of missions. The program supports the Army Transformation Initiative, which aims to improve the overall readiness and adaptability of Army units. By acquiring armored and armor-capable HMMWVs, the Army seeks to provide increased survivability for personnel during combat operations, homeland defense missions, and domestic emergency responses.
The program requests funding to procure HMMWV units, with vehicles distributed across both active and reserve components. This reflects the need for standardized equipment and capabilities throughout the force. The procurement also aligns with Section 1815 of the FY 2008 National Defense Authorization Act, which mandates the use of these vehicles for homeland defense, support to civil authorities, and emergency response operations.
The Army Transformation Initiative is closely linked to the HMMWV program, as the modernization of tactical vehicles is a critical component of the Army's broader strategy to maintain a flexible and responsive force. The initiative emphasizes the replacement of legacy systems with newer, more capable platforms that can operate in diverse environments and support a variety of mission sets. The HMMWV's adaptability for different roles such as troop transport, command and control, and medical evacuation makes it a cornerstone of this transformation effort.
Funding for the HMMWV program is justified by the need to address evolving threats and operational demands. The procurement of armored variants is particularly important for protecting soldiers against improvised explosive devices (IEDs), small arms fire, and other battlefield hazards. The program also supports the Army's commitment to interoperability and joint operations, as HMMWVs are used in coordination with other services and allied forces during combined missions.
In addition to procurement, the program includes provisions for initial spares and sustainment, ensuring that newly acquired vehicles can be maintained and supported over their operational lifecycle. This approach minimizes downtime and maximizes the availability of HMMWVs for training, deployment, and contingency operations. The budget line does not include advance procurement or research and development activities, focusing solely on the acquisition of completed vehicles and associated support.