09 May 08
There were Forward Control versions of the civilian-issue Series II and III, with the passenger cab built over the engine, but the most-produced Forward Control Land Rover was the 101 'One Tonne', developed specifically for the British army and built 1972-78.
Similar in concept to the Mercedes Unimog, the high-riding 101FC was able to tackle the most demanding terrain. With a 101" wheelbase and a Rover 3.5-litre V8 mounted underneath the body, it was versatile: it could be easily winched into a plane, and it could tow field guns and ammunition. Many of the original soft-tops were converted for ambulance and troop-carrying duties, and many remained in service with the army until the late 1990s.
Other military Land Rovers have included lightweight SWBs - specifically made to be transported by air - as well as specially-modified and armoured versions of contemporary production models. Many Series IIs and IIIs were used on reconnaissance duties by the SAS. A halftrack light tank version of the Series III was also made, using parts from the Alvis Scorpion.
