DUKW Vehicle Reference
The DUKW (commonly pronounced 'duck') is a six-wheel-drive amphibious modification of the 2½-ton CCKW trucks used by the U.S. military during World War II and the Korean War. Designed by a partnership under military auspices of Sparkman & Stephens and General Motors Corporation (GMC), it was used for the transportation of goods and troops over land and water. Excelling in its ability to operate in a variety of conditions, the DUKW was instrumental in numerous operations, providing an invaluable service in logistics and tactical deployments.
Notably, the DUKW features a watertight body and a propeller for water navigation, alongside its conventional tire-based movement system for land travel. Its versatility made it a critical asset in amphibious operations, allowing for the seamless supply and reinforcement of beachheads and river crossings. The vehicle's reliability and robustness have cemented its place in military history, and it remains a subject of interest for military historians and vehicle enthusiasts alike.