SOCOM wants Polaris ATVs On Non-Pneumatic Tires

Polaris Defense is soon to offer SOCOM its Polaris ATVs with Non-Pneumatic Tires (NPT).

The big bonus?  No need for spares meaning an increase in payload and space plus if hit with a 12.7mm bullet they supposedly can still travel upwards of 8000km.

via Airless Tire.com

For the time being, Polaris has integrated the non-pneumatic tires (NPTs) into its defense division and testing with the US Army already started in October 2012. In-theater conditions have been simulated in one test where a .50-caliber bullet was shot at the airless tire which was then ridden for 5,000 miles without any issues.
Richard Haddad, general manager of Polaris’ military business confirmed: “We drove one tire with a railroad spike in it for over 1,000 miles. The thing drove like it was brand new. These are designed to last the life of the vehicle. This capability gives our troops an edge when operating in rugged, war-torn terrain.”

If it works then this is some trickle down that I can support.  But make no mistake, this isn't a new idea and quite honestly it dates back to the first mass produced cars.  Taking the idea even further back its just the old wagon wheel from war chariots.   The photo below is from Military Photos of a S. African attempt.