Before Jeep became the legendary off-road brand that it is today, it got its start by producing vehicles for the military. The original Jeep (the Willys MB) served its tour in WWII and other battles, and from there, as they say, the rest is history. After being absent from military duty for years, Chrysler LLC has just announced a new military Jeep based on the Wrangler called the J8.

The J8 will be available in two body styles, a four-door, as well as a two-door version with an extended wheelbase. The latter was previewed earlier this year by the JT pickup truck concept vehicle, which will also be shown at this year’s SEMA show this fall. It’s not just a standard Wrangler, though, as Jeep has significantly re-engineered the frame. While the J8 wasn’t intended to do patrol routes, instead it’s supposed to be an ambulance, troop transporter and communications vehicle. It can be ordered with armour plating. In addition, the J8 can be transported by air or helicopter thanks to its heavy duty bumpers with hooks.

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