JCB HMEE

HMEE when working with the Radladerschaufel

The High Mobility Engineer Excavator (English, mutatis mutandis, to highly mobile pioneer excavators, short HMEE ) is tailored to the requirements of the military Backhoe Construction of the British manufacturer JCB. The vehicle is being built since 2007 in Savannah, in the State of Georgia.

Concept and characteristics

The HMEE based on the model of JCB Fastrac and is thus in a position, in contrast to most other wheel loaders or excavators loaders with over 80 km / h ride on paved roads, which the manufacturer is the specifications of the U.S. Army needs. This allows the HMEE independently ride in military convoys and do not require transport on a low loader.

The vehicle weighs around twelve tons and is powered by a 200 hp diesel engine, which allows the coordinated transmission, a top speed of 88 km / h. The all-wheel drive and the tractability of both axes allow off-road capabilities and tight turning circles. The standard ABS system also enhances safety in fast rides.

The Radladerschaufel summarizes the standard version 1 m³ and extends to a height of 3.7 m. The tail boom can dig up to four meters deep.

The dimensions of the HMEE were selected according to the manufacturer so that these C -130 Hercules transport aircraft can be loaded in a Lockheed.

Use

The HMEE is mainly used by the U.S. armed forces. Closed at the end of 2007, the U.S. Army signed a contract with JCB for the supply and maintenance of 800 vehicles worth 230 million U.S. dollars. The plan was to deliver the HMEE until 2012.

2008 were ordered by the British armed forces HMEE worth 7 million pounds.

In 2010, the New Zealand armed forces received six HMEE.

Also in 2010, joined the Swedish Armed Forces has signed a contract for the purchase of ten HMEE.

In 2013, the Bundeswehr has also received seven of these pioneer fast machines.