Originally designated the T26E4, these prototype half-tracks would eventually reach the designation M7. This vehicle filled a very specific role in its brief service with the United States Army Air Force, in 1944, and later again, in 1950, with the United States Air Force. The M7 was built, by Allis Chalmers, specifically to recover downed airmen in arctic regions or conditions. Research has also suggested the M7 and its crewmen were also tasked with the destruction of the most heavily guarded American secret during World War II, the Norden Bomb Sight, a mechanical computer fitted to most American bombers that accounted for multiple aircraft and weather-related variables to bomb targets from high altitude accurately.

         To accomplish this, the M7 utilized the same four-cylinder, 134 cubic inch, Willys 442  gas engine as the MB to produce 54 horsepower. This engine coupled with a Warner gear T-84; 3-speed transmission and a high-low two-speed transfer case produced a listed top speed of 41 miles per hour. However, the over 3,000 lb. weight of the M7, combined with the M29 Weasel-inspired tracks, and snowy operating conditions proved taxing to the top speed and overall transmission health. The M7 also tended to gather snow between the front drive wheel and the track itself resulting in frequently thrown tracks if the snow was not removed. Interestingly, the front wheels of the M7 can be replaced with wooden skis mounted to the sides of the vehicle for improved maneuverability in deep snow.

The M7 is truly one of its kind in terms of military vehicles with an original production number of 291. The M7 here on display is serial number 131 and less than 20 remain in existence today.

The Heartland Museum of Military Vehicles