The Oshkosh LVSR MKR15 stands as the recovery vehicle variant derived from the LVSR heavy high-mobility truck. In 2011, the US Marine Corps initiated an acquisition for nearly 70 units of these robust wreckers. The inaugural production units were delivered in 2012, stepping into service as replacements for the Oshkosh Mk.48/15.
Designed for versatile vehicle recovery across a diverse range of terrains, the Oshkosh LVSR MKR15 heavy wrecker boasts exceptional cross-country mobility, thanks to its potent engine and 10×10 configuration. Capable of traversing sand, mud, water, and snow, this robust vehicle is equipped with two aft-deploying recovery winches, each boasting a combined pull rating of 35 tons and a 98-meter cable.
Enhancing stability during winching operations, the wrecker features a hydraulically operated ground anchor. On solid road surfaces, it can effortlessly tow vehicles weighing up to 50 tons using either rigid or non-rigid hitches. For damaged or uncontrollable vehicles, towing is executed in a suspended semi-lifted position. Impressively, the wrecker can lift and tow vehicles with a maximum weight of 43 tons, and it is also proficient in towing trailers with a gross weight of up to 24 tons.
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Operated by a two-person crew, the vehicle’s cab is fortified with integrated armor protection and energy-absorbing seats, offering defense against small arms fire and mine blasts. For an enhanced level of protection, an additional armor kit can be installed. Notably, the vehicle can be armed with a roof-mounted machine gun or an automatic grenade launcher for self-defense purposes.
This wrecker shares several automotive components with the Oshkosh MTVR heavy utility truck, a vehicle also utilized by the US Marine Corps. It is propelled by a Caterpillar C15 15.2-liter turbocharged diesel engine, generating an impressive 600 horsepower. This engine standardizes across the LVSR range and is strategically positioned behind and under the cab. This layout not only contributes to a reduction in the vehicle’s overall height but also safeguards against potential radiator damage or blockages from mud. The powerplant is paired with an Allison 7-speed automatic transmission, and the vehicle features a central tire inflation system.
To enhance maneuverability, the truck incorporates a four-axle steering system on axles 1, 2, 4, and 5, effectively reducing the turning radius. Additionally, a front-mounted 9-ton capacity self-recovery winch is included. With its unprepared configuration, the MKR15 can ford water obstacles up to a depth of 1.52 meters.