Morocco Will Supply HET A1 Tractors From Oshkosh For Abrams Tanks
The Moroccan armed forces have ordered tactical tractors from the US company Oshkosh Defence through Optimum Vehicle Logistics in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to support the existing Abrams tank fleet.
The order relates to an unspecified number of 635NL trailers and Heavy Equipment Transporter (HET) A1 tractors, the value of the contract was not disclosed. Oshkosh Defence’s sole distributor in Morocco, Optimum Vehicle Logistics, will coordinate the procurement, and delivery of the systems will begin in the summer of 2025.
The Oshkosh Defense Heavy Equipment Transporter (HET) A1 is purposely designed to provide rapid movement of mission-critical equipment, including tanks, armored vehicles, and recovery vehicles. The US Army has trusted production, technology enhancements, and sustainment of the HET to Oshkosh Defense since 1976.
The HET A1 has a curb weight of 20,638 kg and a payload capacity of 72 tonnes. It is powered by a Caterpillar C18 turbocharged diesel engine producing 700 hp and has a range of approximately 480 kilometers at 80 km/h speed. The vehicle is also equipped with an Allison 4800 SP 7-speed automatic transmission, Oshkosh 30000 Series single-speed transfer case, air suspension, and 16.00 R20 Michelin XZL tubeless tires supported by a Central Tyre Inflation System (CTIS), enabling it to carry heavy loads over a variety of terrains and in extreme weather conditions.
Another important feature of the Oshkosh HET is the semi-automatic fifth-wheel hitch system, which makes it compatible with a variety of trailers, such as the 635NL. The 635NL is a 6-axle heavy-duty trailer that is 15.8 meters long and has a deck height of approximately 0.9 meters. This provides ample space for Abrams tanks or other tracked vehicles.
“We are pleased to work with Optimum Vehicle Logistics, our exclusive distributor in the Kingdom of Morocco, to supply the Kingdom with additional heavy tactical wheeled vehicles in support of its M1 Abrams modernization efforts,” said Pat Williams, chief programs officer for Oshkosh Defense. “This award reinforces our dedication to partnering with our international partners to strengthen their capabilities and improve interoperability.”