Lightweight vehicles

Bodies
Soft Top (mostly); Hard Top; Various special bodies

History
The prototype was developed in 1965 to meet specifications for an extra-light vehicle suitable for air-freighting into the scene of battle for the British MoD (Ministry of Defence), the target weight was ¼-ton.

Based on the civilian Landrover's mechanics of the time used in the Series IIa, the resulting production version weighed in at ½-ton. The vehicle designated Truck utility ½ ton 4x4 Rover by the MoD.

A distinctive angular body shape and narrow bulkhead with cut away wheel arches made this vehicle appear very different from other Landrover's. A two-piece tailgate was used and the petrol filler cap was located under the seats. Pictured left is a vehicle with a hard top fitted.

Although named Lightweight, it was actually heavier than its civilian counterpart. It was made lighter when the de-mountable body panels were removed, thus allowing it to be lifted by the helicopters of the time (Westland Wessex). By the time the production models were entering service new helicopters also entering service were now able to transport regular Landrover's. Vehicles were available either as a General Service model or as a FFR (fitted for radio) version.

These vehicles were quickly found to have excellent off road capability. In all 3000 Series IIa Lightweights were built. Unusual versions of Lightweights are included in the Glossary

History
The Series III Lightweight came into production in 1972 a year later than the civilian Series III, to allow Land Rover time to clear its outstanding SIIa orders for the MOD. This model became available to overseas buyers from all over the world.

Sides rolled up The obvious differences between the Series III and the Series IIa are the same differences as those found in the civilian versions, the position of the headlights changed from the grille to the wing and the front indicators are now below the sidelights. The gearbox used was upgraded to full synchromesh; the GS vehicles had fold-up bench seats in the rear. Around 1,800 Lightweight Series III's were built.

Although no longer in official service with the MoD some TA units are still operating these. I am informed by TA NCO that vehicles are still been used to lay communications cables in the field. Some unusual Lightweights are included in my Glossary

The original concept for air-freighting vehicles is still alive for the MoD, air Portable XD90 Wolf (Defenders) are in current service with British armed forces. These have been modified for parachute insertion and can be double stacked on standard pallets.