Studebaker US6

The Studebaker US6 (M16A) is a class of 2.5-ton trucks manufactured by Studebaker during World War II, produced in the United States from 1941-1945 and in the Soviet Union beginning in 1942.

A BM-13 Katyusha rocket launcher based on a Studebaker

Specifications

The US6 had a Hercules built six-cylinder gasoline engine that produced 94 horsepower (70 kW), with a five-speed transmission plus a two speed transfer case. Production was divided between GMC producing trucks for the US Army, Studebaker Corporation producing 2.5-ton trucks for Lend-Lease, and International Harvester producing for the US Navy & Marines. Three primary manufacturers produced over 900,000 2.5-ton trucks in all, in both 6x4 and 6x6 axle/wheel versions, with approximately 200,000 Studebaker trucks built in thirteen variations, including dump truck and tractor models.

Studebaker trucks were unique from other 2.5-ton trucks built for the war effort because vent windows were included in each door. These windows were separate from the window that rolled down into the door and could be rotated out to help with ventilation.

Allied use

Large numbers of Lend-Lease Studebaker trucks were sent into the Soviet Union via the Persian Corridor. The Soviets found them a good platform for "Stalin Organ" Katyusha rocket launchers, although it was not their prime use in the Soviet Union. It fulfilled many roles in the Red Army, such as pulling artillery and was renowned for its ruggedness and reliability. The truck was affectionately known as the Studer by Soviet troops.

Studebaker US6 trucks were also used in the construction of the Burma Road as well as the Alcan Highway in North America.

Studebakers parked along the Persian Corridor

Katyusha side view

See also

• G-numbers
• Katyusha rocket launcher
• M35 2½ ton cargo truck

References

• SNL G630

External links

• http://www.olive-drab.com/idphoto/id_photos_us6.php

Australian CMP http://www.oldcmp.net/us6.html