USN Amphi. Cargo Vehicle LARC - V Modern Version

Plastic model kit of the LARC-V amphibious transport vehicle in its current configuration

• 1:35 scale
• Includes clear parts and photo-etched parts
• Features detailed driver's cabin interior
• Flattened tires
• Inflatable boat included
• Side hull panels with lifebuoys
• 2 marking options
  • LARC V-895: USN 96-39159
  • LARC V-835: USN 96-37225
• Unassembled, unpainted
• Paint and glue not included

The LARC-V (Lighter, Amphibious Resupply, Cargo, 5-ton) remains in service with the US Navy more than six decades after its introduction. However, the vehicles used today differ significantly in numerous technical details from those originally developed for the US Army in the 1960s. Through an extensive Service Life Extension Program (SLEP), the remaining vehicles have undergone major modernization to meet the demands of modern amphibious logistics.

These modernized vehicles are frequently designated as LARC-V A1 or LARC-V A2. While the characteristic aluminum hull—featuring an elevated driver's cab and an open cargo deck—remains largely unchanged externally, numerous components have been replaced. The original 300 hp Cummins V8 diesel engine was replaced by a 375 hp John Deere turbodiesel; simultaneously, the vehicle received a modern hydraulic transmission and completely overhauled hydraulic and electrical systems. The braking system, instrumentation, and controls were also upgraded, resulting in significantly improved reliability and ease of maintenance. Traction capabilities—both on land and in the water—were also increased.

Its current operational role differs markedly from that of the Vietnam War era. While the LARC-V was primarily used back then to transport supplies between cargo ships and the shore, the remaining vehicles now serve mainly with the US Navy's Beachmaster Units (BMU). These specialized units coordinate amphibious landings, logistical beach operations, as well as recovery and support tasks. Under current guidelines, Beachmaster Units maintain several operational LARC-Vs, kept ready for both training and worldwide deployments.

Modern Navy vehicles can also be distinguished from Vietnam-era models by their appearance. Many vehicles today feature a solid gray paint scheme matching the US Navy's standard look, whereas older vehicles were typically painted Olive Drab. In addition, there are modern lighting systems, new antennas, GPS systems, modified mounts for recovery and safety gear, and up-to-date radio equipment. Depending on the operational unit, additional fire extinguishers, recovery gear, or tie-down equipment may be mounted externally.

However, the basic design of the cargo area has been retained. The LARC-V still features an open cargo platform with characteristic low side rails, enabling the transport of pallets, containers, vehicle parts, or supplies. It is precisely this design that makes it particularly well-suited for transfer operations between ship, beach, and unimproved terrain to this day.

Recent photos show that modernized LARC-Vs continue to participate regularly in amphibious exercises—including those in Puerto Rico and deployment/beach logistics drills conducted by Beachmaster Units. This makes the LARC-V one of the few vehicles from the Vietnam War era that—in modernized form—remain in active service with the US Navy.

For modelers, there are several notable differences compared to a Vietnam-era vehicle:
 

• solid US Navy gray paint scheme instead of Olive Drab,
• modernized propulsion and equipment components (usually not visible on the model),
• current radio and antenna configurations,
• modern LED or modified lighting, depending on the modernization standard,
• markings for Beachmaster Units or other Navy support units,
• contemporary cargo such as ISO pallets, material containers, recovery gear, or port logistics equipment.