The LVT-4 “Water Buffalo” was an American amphibious tracked landing vehicle used extensively in World War Two. Introduced in 1943, it was powered by a Continental W670 7-cylinder, 250 hp radial engine, giving it a top speed of 32 km/h (20 mph) on land and 12 km/h (7.5 mph) in water. Unlike earlier LVTs (Landing Vehicle Tracked), the LVT-4 featured a rear ramp, allowing for faster troop and cargo deployment. It could carry 30 troops or 4,500 kg (10,000 lbs) of cargo, including jeeps or small artillery pieces. Armed with .50 caliber and .30 caliber machine guns, some variants were equipped with 37 mm or 75 mm cannons for fire support. Used in key amphibious operations like Iwo Jima, Okinawa, and the Normandy landings, the LVT-4 played a crucial role in transporting troops from ship to shore under enemy fire.
This LVT-4 Water Buffalo is on display in Musee Des Blindes in Saumur – France.
