History, technical details and pictures

GMC DUKW 353 history

In 1942, the U.S. military, represented by the Commanding General, Service and Supply, called the National Defense Research Committee to provide an amphibious vehicle capable of traveling both at sea and on land.

With 6 wheel drive, the first prototype was manufactured by General Motors Company. Immediately adopted by the U.S. Army, the GMC DUKW 353 could move in the water using a propeller.

This vehicle could carry a large amount of equipment (up to 2368 kg) or 25 equipped troops. Widely used during amphibious exercises, including the Normandy landings, its maneuverability allowed the DUKW to be the link between transport ships and the beach. It could also cross rivers.

Used during the Korean War, the GMC DUKW 353 were highly appreciated by American soldiers. The DUKW remained in service until the 50s.

GMC DUKW 353 sheet

Creator: USA
Name: GMC DUKW 353

Rate of fire: 9,45 m
Width: 2,10 m
Height: 2,44 m
Weigth: 6600 kg

Maximum speed at sea: 10 km/h
Maximum speed on land: 80 km/h
Maximum autonomy at sea: 80 km
Maximum autonomy on land: 385 km

Armament: 12,7 mm Browning machine gun

Transport : 25 soldiers with equipment or 2368 kg of material

Engine: GMC 270 6-cylinder, 4 417 cc, 104 hp, 2 750 rpm