JCB has secured a $205m contract from the US Marine Corps (USMC) to provide 535 militarised 437HT wheel loaders under the Tractor, Rubber Tired, Articulated-Steering Multi-Purpose (TRAM) vehicle programme.
The contract represents the third tender awarded consecutively by the Marine Corps to JCB. It follows previous agreements for militarised variants of the 4CX backhoe loader, valued at $45m, and the JCB Teleskid compact tracked loader, valued at $39m.
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The USMC selected the 437HT wheel loader after conducting a thorough evaluation process.
JCB plans to deliver a number of test units later in the year, with full-scale production scheduled to commence in 2027.
JCB North America CEO Richard Fox-Marrs said: “This repeat business from the US Marine Corps underscores the reliability and mission-readiness of JCB machines. Being selected for three consecutive contracts speaks volumes about the trust placed in our engineering, performance and support.”
The 437HT wheel loader is based on JCB’s commercial 437 wheel loader platform and is designed to handle intensive material-handling operations.
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By GlobalDataThe vehicle is equipped to offer substantial lifting strength, quick operating cycles, and dependable function in challenging environments.
Key features of the base 437 model include the CommandPlus cab, which is intended for long periods of use, roll-over protective structure (ROPS)/falling object protective structure (FOPS) safety systems, and straightforward maintenance access to reduce equipment downtime.
The platform incorporates precision-engineered components and has undergone extensive durability testing, forming a basis suitable for modification to meet military requirements.
JCB manufactures many of these machines at its North American headquarters in Savannah, Georgia, contributing to both military supply needs and domestic manufacturing employment.
The company has an established history of supporting global military operations with purpose-built equipment such as the High Mobility Engineer Excavator (HMEE), Light Capability Rough Terrain Forklift (LCRTF), and militarised versions of commercial platforms.
JCB North America government and defence vice president Chris Giorgianni said: “Winning this competitive contract is testament to the reliability, robustness and suitability of the JCB 437HT platform. This machine represents the best of JCB engineering – proven in commercial applications and purpose-built to support the unique demands of military operations.”
