This initial contract calls for delivery of some 17,000 vehicles between 2018 and 2022, but it could ultimately be worth some $30b to the company, as the JLTV gradually replaces the US military's ageing fleet of 280,000 Humvees.

It's no small sum, but the Oshkosh JLTV is a thoroughly modern war machine, one that outperforms the Humvee in every way. Design requirements called for a new vehicle that was tougher, more capable, more versatile, easier to transport, easier to fix and above all, more protective of the soldiers and Marines who will operate it.

All it needs now is a catchy name. On that front, "Hummer" will be hard to beat.

If you would like to comment on this story or anything else you have seen on BBC Autos, head over to our Facebook page or message us on Twitter.