5. LVTP-5 (Landing Vehicle, Tracked, Personnel)
Though decommissioned from U.S. service, the LVTP-5 developed several of the basic ideas for contemporary amphibious vehicles. Setting new benchmarks for amphibious transportation capacity, this large vehicle could carry either 34 fully prepared troops or 9,000 pounds of cargo. Its creative bow ramp construction and high freeboard made it quite successful on choppy waves. The success of the vehicle affected the design of next amphibious generations, especially in terms of crew protection and sea-keeping capacity. Several altered versions still find use in different forces all over, despite their age.
6. Piranha III C Amphibious
The height of wheeled amphibious vehicle development is embodied in the Piranha III C, Swiss-designed. At speeds of 100km/h on roads and 10km/h in water, this 8×8 vehicle achieves great road mobility combined with amphibious capability. Its modular architecture lets one create several configurations ranging from fire support vehicle to personnel transport. The vehicle maintains complete amphibious capability but its success rests in its sophisticated protection systems, including NBC protection and add-on armour choices. Its efficiency in contemporary military operations is shown by its general acceptance among NATO members.