From Peacekeepers to War Machines: U.S. Vehicles in Terrorist Control

United States cracks down on Middle Eastern terrorist organizations
US Military assets seized

The United States is a global peacekeeper.
Alongside eliminating numerous terrorist organizations, the US also maintains international security, earning it the nickname of ‘the world’s policeman.’ They keep peace by providing direct support and supplying weapons and vehicles in places where that isn’t possible.

The relationship between the Middle East and the United States is famously inseparable.
After the 9/11 terrorist attacks, conflicts and wars intensified, with the US putting significant effort into eliminating armed groups in Afghanistan, such as the Taliban and the Islamic extremist group ISIS. After these operations, a considerable amount of material left behind by the US military was seized by terrorist organizations, with weapons and vehicles being their primary targets.

Seizing abandoned vehicles modified for military use

American pickup trucks and off-roaders, designed for military use, are much sturdier than regular vehicles and are easy to modify for weapon installation. This makes them the first targets for terrorist organizations. The international community was shocked by reports that the US left behind 65,000 Ford Rangers and Humvees after withdrawing from the Afghanistan war.

Many terrorist and extremist organizations abroad have been caught importing pickup trucks. The Toyota Hilux pickup truck has already gained a notorious reputation among terrorists, and recently, there have been instances of Korean one-ton trucks being modified to mount missiles and machine guns.

Humvees armed with weapons
Highly mobile rangers

The vehicles primarily used by the US military are Humvees and Ford Rangers. Let’s briefly examine their features and see why they appeal to terrorists. The Humvee is over 4 meters long, has a low ground clearance for stability, and boasts high power output. It’s equipped with a 6.2L diesel engine (equivalent to 378 cubic inches), which is incredibly powerful, but surprisingly, its top speed is only 65 miles per hour. Typically, Humvees can be seen armed with various weapons, including machine guns, grenade launchers, and missiles, showcasing their overwhelming firepower.

The Ford Ranger is a compact pickup truck smaller than a full-size pickup truck. It’s highly maneuverable and often used as a tactical vehicle. The US supplied large quantities of the Ranger in Afghanistan during the war.

Groups Hostile to the United States

The irony that the groups and countries most hostile to the United States are using vehicles left behind by the US military for their activities is not lost. But at the same time, it’s a testament to the superior performance of these military vehicles.

The US government is trying to recover the abandoned vehicles and materials scattered in high-risk areas. However, due to cost and diplomatic complications, the situation remains complex and challenging. It’s a regrettable situation that these high-performing vehicles are being used to oppress and threaten innocent people. We hope this situation will disappear gradually.