M48 Tank Because the often soggy Vietnamese terrain limited their range, tanks did not play a major role in Vietnam. They did, however, provide valuable support to American forces in the south, securing contested roadways and engaging enemy troops. The most common U.S. tank was the M48. The diesel-powered M48 carried a 90mm turret-mounted main gun, capable of rotating to fire in any direction, as well as one 7.62mm machine gun and one .50 caliber machine gun. The tank traveled at maximum speeds of about 30 m.p.h. Armor plating on the M48 varied from 76-100mm, with the heaviest armor reserved for the front of the tank's hull.
M113 Armored Personnel Carrier The M113 armored personnel carrier served valuable transport, reconnaissance and fire support functions in a variety of terrain. Protected by between 12 and 38 millimeters of armor, a .50 caliber Browning machine gun and two optional M60 60mm machine guns, up to eleven soldiers could travel securely in the M113. The amphibious vehicle ran on dual aluminum tank-type tracks, traveled at speeds of over 40 m.p.h., and was controlled by a two-man crew.