Truck, Cargo, 1 1/4 ton, 6X6, M561 Gama Goat
The M561 Gama Goat was designed by ARPA-funded Project Agile, as a truck capable of handling the rugged terrain of Southeast Asia. Ling-Temco-Vought (LTV) was the prime contractor with production by Consolidated Diesel Electric Company (CONDEC).
The M561 Gama Goat is powered by a Detroit Diesel 3-53 power plant mounted behind the driver's cab in the two axle tractor. The trailer had its own powered single axle, a true 6x6 design. Both the front axle and the rear axle on the trailer were steered, giving the Gama Goat extraordinary capabilities to move in tight places. The aluminum body was watertight allowing the Gama Goat to cross waterways, but it had no propeller and could swamp easily which limited its amphibious ambitions.
The vehicle had many drawbacks, however, including mechanical problems, high noise and unusual handling requiring special driver training. Over 15,000 were produced before production ended. It was replaced by the HMMWV.
82nd Airborne Division M561 Gama Goat truck loaded with supplies emerging from a C-141B Starlifter aircraft, Point Salines Airport, Operation Urgent Fury, Granada, 25 October 1983.
82nd Airborne Division M561 Gama Goat truck participating in the evacuation of American students from Granada, Operation Urgent Fury, 26 October 1983.
M561 Gama Goat truck near Point Salines Airfield, Operation Urgent Fury, Granada, 26 October 1983.
M561 Gama Goat. Photo: Courtesy of Dennis P. Nolan.
M561 Gama Goat.
M-561 data plate. Photo: Courtesy of Bob Pettit.
M-561 data plate. Photo: Courtesy of Bob Pettit.
