Military

M997 HMMWV Maxi-Ambulance

The M997, M997A1, and M997A2 HMMWVs were the Maxi-Ambulance configuration of the HMMWV family. The vehicles were equipped with basic armor and used to transport casualties from the battlefield to the medical aid stations. The M997 types were 4-litter ambulances with basic armor protection and air conditioning for crew and patients. The M997 series of ambulances were capable of transporting up to 4 litter patients, 8 ambulatory patients, or a combination of litter and ambulatory patients. Additionally, medical personnel, equipment, and a driver could be accommodated in the vehicle.

The ambulance could be heated, ventilated, or air conditioned, depending on environmental conditions. For operation in an NBC environment, the M997, M997A1, and M997A2 were equipped with a Gas-Particulate Filter Unit (GPFU) with heaters capable of supporting up to 7 personnel equipped with either M25 series protective masks or M13 series patient protective masks. The GPFU forced temperature-controlled, filtered air to the mask facepieces, which increased protection, eased breathing, and reduced stress and heat fatigue during extended periods of NBC operation.

Fully-loaded M997, M997A1, and M997A2 ambulances could climb road grades as steep as 60 percent (31 degrees) and traverse a side slope of up to 40 percent (22 degrees). The vehicles could ford hard bottom water crossings up to 30 inches (76 centimeters) without a deep water fording kit and 60 inches (152 centimeters) with the kit.

An improved variant with the A1 series modifications was also produced. The M997A2 models had new bumpers, along with all the other A2 series improvements, which made the vehicles slightly longer. A 9,000 pound self-recovery winch was also available for the M997A2 models as an option.

M997 variants fitted with any of a variety of add-on armor packages as part of near term armor programs, beginning in 2003 were designated with a "P1" after their respective model number.