| Internally Transportable Vehicle (Growler) | |
|---|---|
U.S. Marine Growler |
|
| Type | Light Utility Vehicle |
| Place of origin | United States |
| Service history | |
| In service | 2009 – present |
| Used by | United States Marine Corps |
| Production history | |
| Manufacturer | General Dynamics and American Growler |
| Produced | 2009 – present |
| Variants | M1161/M1163 |
| Specifications | |
| Weight | curb 1,500 kg (3,300 lb)
MGW: 3,800 kg (8,400 lb) |
| Length | 4.080 m (160.6 in) |
| Width | 1.512 m (59.5 in) |
| Height | 1.940 m (76.4 in) reducible to 1.40 m (55 in) |
| Crew | 1 |
|
|
|
| Engine | diesel |
| Payload capacity | 900 kg (2,000 lb) cross country |
| Suspension | 4x4 |
| Fuel capacity | 75 litres (20 US gal)
fuel: diesel/JP MPG: 17 |
| Speed | max 105 km/h (65 mph) |
| Steering system |
four wheel |
A Growler is a Jeep-like United States Marine Corps internally transportable vehicle (ITV), smaller than typical military Light Utility Vehicles.
Development for the Growler began in 1999 by American Growler when the Marine Corps sought a vehicle that could be transported in a V-22 Osprey. Although initially derided because the firm used design elements and parts from the M151 MUTT drivetrain as a starting point for the concept, the final design was completely revised with new parts and specially tailored to fit in the tight confines of the V-22. There are no M151 components used in the manufacture of the M1163 or M1161. [1]
Two different Growler vehicles were eventually created, one for reconnaissance and one for towing mortar and ammunition trailers. Despite light armor and issues concerning ammunition safety, the mortar towing Growlers were first deployed to Marine units in January 2009.[2]
From when the contract was awarded 2004 to 2008, the average cost of a Growler rose 120% to $209,000, and the average cost of a mortar towing Growler rose 86% to $178,000. As of February 2009, the United States Marine Corps had 81 ITVs and 12 mortar systems contracted and was awaiting bids on 70 more ITVs and 20 more mortar systems.[2] As of August 15 2011 209 M1161s and 102 M1163s have been produced. 42 M1163s are on order. The vehicle is similar to the Panhard A3F already in service in the French army and the Swedish army.