16Jan
What do you want? You want a military-grade vehicle a soldier or civilian can buy as is, that is, not after all the cool stuff that makes them soldierly has been stripped out of them. There are plenty of surplus military vehicles you can buy for as little as a few thousand dollars (like the classic HMMWV) or for upwards of $700,000 (like the Whiskey Class Submarine).
The problem is these vehicles are usually just a shadow of themselves because a gun mount without actual guns can hardly inspire confidence if you run into a group of armed bandits intent on doing you harm. Not even pretty impressive armored baddies like the half-a-million-dollar INKAS Chairman or the Hennessy VelociRaptor APV catch our fancy today. No one prays for an unscheduled meeting with killer herdsmen and homicidal criminals, but it certainly helps to be prepared and protected.
That's why this article is more than a list of military vehicles a civilian can buy. We're focusing on real badass trucks, SUVs, and other tactical vehicles equipped with a number of functional security and safety features to defend yourself, your family, and your friends against various kinds of human and natural threats. If you live in high-risk areas, you want one of these.
See also: 16 Toughest Pickup Trucks Ever Built On Earth (8 Every Nigerian Man Should Have)
1. RICOCHET ARV
The RICOCHET ARV B6 Ballistic Armored Response Vehicle is a purpose-built, modern vehicle with unmatched off-road capabilities, designed to withstand high-powered rifle fire, treacherous terrain, and high-speed scenarios. What’s more?
It features a B6 Ballistic Rated Passenger Cabin and UL7 Rated Ballistic Glass, creating a passenger cabin capable of withstanding high-powered rifle fire. The vehicle is based on the Hummer H1 and Military HMMWV for its off-road capabilities but with a totally new body, suspension, and powertrain system.
The RICOCHET ARV is available in multiple configurations, including seating for up to six adults in the APC configuration. Here’s your chance to own an SUV designed for emergency response, riot avoidance, and other high-risk situations. The vehicle is available for order, and detailed pricing is available upon request.
2. Ripsaw EV2
The Ripsaw EV2 is a high-performance, ultra-tough, and innovative "personal luxury tank" developed by Howe and Howe Technologies. You read that right; “Personal Luxury Tank.” Originally designed for military use, it gained popular demand, leading to the creation of a consumer version.
The EV2 is an imposing hand-built mini-tank powered by a V8 turbo diesel engine generating 600 horsepower and a top speed of 60 mph. Weighing 8,000 lbs and measuring 18 feet long, the Ripsaw EV2 stands out as an exceptional off-road vehicle, appearing in the hit film "The Fate of The Furious."
The vehicle is not street legal, but your and your family’s safety is worth more than the DoT laws. This Ripsaw comes with a basic package starting at around $295,000 (around ₦283 million).
3. Rezvani Vengeance
The Rezvani Vengeance is a full-size off-road SUV produced by Rezvani Motors since 2022. The Vengeance is a powerful and rugged vehicle designed to meet high standards of luxury and security. It comes with a 6.2-liter V8 engine as standard, and optional engine choices include a 3.0-liter Turbo Diesel and a 6.2-liter Supercharged V8.
The Vengeance offers seating for up to seven passengers, and standard features include bulletproof glass, military-grade security packages, Panoramic Sunroof, Heads-up display, and various safety technologies such as Front & Rear Park Assist, Head-Up Display, and Automatic Safety Belt Tightening.
This badass SUV is available with optional security features like military-grade run-flat tires, a thermal/night vision system, electrified door handles, and a smoke screen. This is a high-performance, luxury SUV designed for those who prioritize security and off-road capabilities. It is available for reservation at a starting price of $285,000 (₦274 million).
4. Terradyne Gurkha
The Terradyne Gurkha is a tactical armored vehicle built by Ontario-based Terradyne Armored Vehicles Inc. It is available in three different variants: LAPV, MPV, RPV, and CIV. The vehicle is built on a Ford F-550 Super Duty chassis and shares the same engine and interior.
The Gurkha was originally developed in 2005 by Armet Armored Vehicles, and the design was acquired by Terradyne Armored Vehicles in 2011. The name "Gurkha" pays homage to the Nepali soldiers who served in the British Army.
The application of the Gurkha includes border patrol, law enforcement, government agencies, private security, tactical medic vehicles, and critical infrastructure protection, among others. It is utilized by various law enforcement agencies, government entities, and military units.
The Gurkha is known for its robust build, off-road capabilities, and high level of protection, tailored for use in demanding and high-risk environments. Civilians can buy a brand new Terradyne Gurkha for roughly $700,000 (₦672.4 million).
5. Arquus Scarabee
It sounds like Arkus-Duntov, but this is no Corvette. The Arquus Scarabee armored 4X4 is a modern combat vehicle designed to equip modern armies with highly mobile and heavily armed units.
Prove you’re even stealthier than your enemies with this Scarabee. It is the first hybrid combat vehicle capable of running on 100% electricity to reduce the acoustic and thermal signature.
The Scarabee armored vehicle is intended for reconnaissance, scouting, and support missions and is part of the Arquus range of military vehicles that includes light tactical vehicles, Special Forces vehicles, and armored personnel carriers.
It offers extreme performance in mobility, enabling rapid movement over large areas and control in confined or urban environments. The vehicle has a gross weight of 8t and a top speed of 81 mph, and it can accommodate up to four crew members.
The Scarabee is designed for a range of missions, including tank guidance, quick response force, light cavalry, anti-tank, fire support, urban combat, and special forces operations.
It is available in both standard and all-electric variants, with advanced features such as enhanced visibility, built-in intercoms, and remote-controlled weapon systems. We don’t pray for that day to ever come, but if it does, you’d be thankful for the Arquus Scarabee.
6. STORM
That’s short for Software Tool for Operational Risk Management. The Highland Systems STORM is a Multi-Role Armoured Vehicle designed for use in various specialist military and civil applications.
It is built with exceptional mobility, reliability, and cutting-edge technologies in ballistic, IED, and mine blast protection to withstand harsh environments. The vehicle offers amphibious capabilities and can be configured with remote control systems for autonomous operations.
With a curb weight of 10,000 KG and a 10-passenger seating capacity, it provides high performance on both land and water, with a maximum forward speed of 142 kmph and a maximum speed on water of 35 kmph.
The STORM armored vehicle is designed to accommodate a wide range of missions, including reconnaissance, patrol, special operations, and law enforcement. With STANAG 4569 Level 3 advanced protection, this STORM is prepped for demanding and high-risk environments.
See also: BMW Unveils Armored Versions Of Flagship 7 Series With Enhanced Protection Capabilities
7. Rezvani Tank
The 2020 Rezvani Tank is a high-performance, off-road tactical vehicle designed to deliver extreme mobility and security. It comes with a powerful 500 horsepower 6.4-liter V8 Dodge SRT motor as standard, with an optional 1000 horsepower 6.2-liter Supercharged V8 from the Dodge Demon.
The Tank also features two unique off-road packages providing high ground clearance, top-of-the-line FOX off-road suspension, and capable tires for unstoppable capabilities over any terrain.
This civilian tank offers advanced features such as thermal/night vision systems, electromagnetic pulse protection, and high-intensity LED lighting. It is designed to be the most capable vehicle on and off the road, incorporating military-grade technology and luxury features.
The Rezvani Tank is designed for civilians, offering high levels of protection and performance, and it is available starting at $175,000 (₦168 million). The company also offers Military Edition and Tank X variants with additional features and capabilities.
8. Rezvani Tank Military Edition
The Rezvani Tank Military Edition is a specialized variant of the Rezvani Tank designed to provide exceptional security and military-grade capabilities.
It features bulletproof glass and body armor, a thermal/night vision system, military run-flat tires, electromagnetic pulse protection, and additional security features such as smoke screen, ram bumpers, and a built-in quick access safe.
The Military Edition is powered by a 6.4-liter 500-horsepower V8 engine, with an optional 6.2-liter 1,000-horsepower V8 swiped from the Dodge Demon.
The luxury interior is elegantly appointed, and the vehicle includes a security survival kit with military-grade gas masks, a hypothermia kit, and a first-aid kit. It also offers blinding lights, a siren/PA system, and a thermal/night vision system.
9. Polaris MV850
What? A quad? Don't underestimate or mistake this for a fun outdoorsy toy. The Polaris MV850 is a badass all-terrain vehicle developed by Polaris Government & Defense for military applications, such as patrol, security, reconnaissance, and administrative purposes in training and forward operations.
We can see this come in very handy when you need to make a quick solo dash in treacherous environments, perhaps to forage, recon, or retrieve. You see those tires? They can shrug off small arms fire like it's nothing. It is designed with military-grade features and capabilities to support various missions and has a payload capacity of 850 lb.
You’re looking at a machine with a proven reputation for versatility, ruggedness, and off-road capability, and the US and allied militaries, law enforcement agencies, and emergency response teams will tell you all about it.
The bike is integrated with tie-down points, a 3,000 lb winch, and heavy-duty suspension to handle challenging terrain.
The Polaris MV850 has received contracts from the US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), as well as orders from the German Army, Latvian National Armed Forces, and others for border security and mobility improvement purposes.
10. INKAS Superior APC
This is the one for when you need to safely move more than a few friends or family members. The INKAS Superior APC (Armoured Personnel Carrier) is a multi-mission armored vehicle developed and manufactured by INKAS Armored Vehicle Manufacturing, a special-purpose vehicle manufacturer based in Canada.
The Superior APC features a 4x4 wheel drive configuration based on a reinforced chassis and is designed to address the infantry troop carrier requirements of militaries across the world.
It can also perform peace-keeping and search-and-rescue (SAR) missions, making it suitable for deployment by armed forces, paramilitaries, law enforcement agencies, and SWAT teams.
The vehicle offers a range of versatile features, including a crew cabin in the middle, a troop compartment at the rear, a hydraulic ramp for rapid ingress and egress, and the capability to accommodate 14 dismounted troops in APC configuration or six injured troops and two personnel in AMEV (Armored Medical Evacuation Vehicle) configuration.
Notably, the INKAS Superior APC/AMEV is designed for high performance, emergency response, and various specialist military and civil applications.
See also: Why The Oshkosh Defense L-ATV Is The World’s Most Expensive Combat Truck
11. Rezvani Hercules 6x6
The Rezvani Hercules 6x6 is a high-performance off-road truck designed to be the most capable and powerful vehicle on and off the road. It is equipped with military-grade technology and luxury features, making it suitable for both civilian and military applications.
The truck features bulletproof glass and body armor, underside explosive protection, military run-flat tires, a thermal/night vision system, and electromagnetic pulse protection.
The Hercules 6x6 is available with a 1,000 horsepower V8 engine, with an option of a 1,300 horsepower 7.0-liter Supercharged V8 or a 500 horsepower 6.4-liter SRT V8. It also includes off-road packages with high ground clearance, top-of-the-line suspension, and capable tires.
This powerful off-road truck starts at $395,000 (₦379.4 million), which might just be a small price to pay for utmost performance and security when you need them the most.
12. Plasan Yagu
The Plasan Yagu is an ultralight tactical armored vehicle developed by Plasan to meet the requirements of special operations forces and armed forces worldwide. It was unveiled for the first time at the Expo Seguridad event held in Mexico City in April 2018.
The Yagu is based on the chassis of the Arctic Cat Wildcat 4 1000 recreational off-highway vehicle (ROV) and offers a curb weight of 1.48 tons. The vehicle is designed to accommodate up to three personnel and can be utilized in multiple missions such as special operations, border patrol, urban warfare, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions.
The Yagu features a protected forward crew cab equipped with situational awareness cameras and rapid response capabilities against threats. It can also be installed with a small unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) launching system for improved situational awareness.
The vehicle is armed with a General Robotics Pitbull overhead ultra-light remotely operated weapon station, offering a low silhouette and the ability to mount a 5.56mm or 7.62mm machine gun and electro-optical sensors.
The Plasan Yagu is intended to provide a low-cost option for border patrol or law enforcement missions in austere conditions and is designed to meet the requirements of asymmetric warfare.
13. Highland Kronos
Photo credit: MilitaryLeak.com
Who says you must go by land? The Highland Kronos is an armored submarine designed by Highland Systems that offers advanced underwater capabilities. This hybrid vessel boasts high performance, remarkable efficiency, and reduced energy costs when submerged.
It can comfortably accommodate up to 11 passengers, making it suitable for commercial, rescue, and combat operations. With a futuristic hydrodynamic design, the Kronos features an innovative hull design that reduces fuel consumption, increases maximum speed, and provides superior stability.
The vehicle is equipped with a diesel generator and a 1,200-horsepower electric motor, enabling a maximum speed of 31 mph underwater and 50 mph on the surface. Additionally, the Kronos has a working depth of 100 meters and a range of up to 54 hours.
The submarine is tailored to provide a new concept in the production of submarines and offers a wide array of features essential for advanced aquatic operations.
14. GHIATH SWAT Edition
The GHIATH SWAT Edition is a purpose-built security vehicle developed by Dubai-based W Motors, crafted to meet the specific needs of sensitive operations. It features advanced technology and a rugged design suitable for covert and overt missions, as well as all-terrain handling capabilities.
The GHIATH SWAT Edition comes equipped with built-in weapons holders, 3D printed components, smoke launchers, military-grade infrared LED illumination systems, and nine surveillance cameras with built-in number plate recognition capabilities.
The interiors are equipped with facial recognition technology, driver-activated security cameras, and GPS tracking. The vehicle is part of Dubai Police's efforts to enhance community safety and security and is designed to complement the impressive roster of high-performance security vehicles in the Dubai Police fleet.
While you’re unlikely to get your hands on the SWAT Edition since it costs a reported $14 billion and is tailor-made for Dubai Police, you should probably turn your attention to the regular GHIATH, which is now offered for sale to civilians in Dubai and elsewhere for a reported $149,747.29 (Dh550,000).
We may have called it the “regular GHIATH,” but there’s hardly anything regular about its advanced cameras and sensors, a 15.6-inch infotainment display, a 10.5-inch multiple-purpose screen with night vision, and a digital cluster gauge with custom-user interface.
Notable Mention
Milen Ivanov Armortruck
The Armortruck SUV Concept by Milen Ivanov is an extraordinary concept vehicle that envisions a heavily armored and apocalypse-ready supertruck.
The concept is designed with an extensive focus on realistic detail, featuring a body made from steel, titanium, Kevlar, and carbon fiber, with multilayer "special material" glass.
The wheels are envisioned to be bulletproof, and the vehicle is depicted with a range of high-tech features, including a hybrid powertrain capable of producing up to 2,000 combined horsepower output, thermal night vision, and a roof-mounted oxygen regeneration and filtering system.
The interior mirrors the angled lines and bold colors of the exterior, with advanced technology and seating for four adults. While the Armortruck is an impressive concept not yet in production, it is an intriguing vision of an apocalypse-ready armored SUV with bleeding-edge but realistic features.
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