JCB Secures $45 Million U.S. Marine Corps Contract for New 4CX Backhoe Loader
JCB has landed a five-year, $45 million contract to supply 4CX backhoe loaders to the U.S. Marine Corps. The agreement covers the machines, attachments testing and hands-on operator training. Deliveries will support Marine Corps engineering operations in the United States and abroad. This is JCB’s second major Marine Corps deal in two years. In 2024 the company secured a $39 million contract for the Multi-Terrain Loader, a militarized version of its JCB Teleskid. From the press release:
“We’re proud that, after an extensive evaluation, the Marine Corps has once again selected JCB,” said Richard Fox-Marrs, president and CEO of JCB North America. “As the world’s leading backhoe loader manufacturer, we value this continued partnership and the confidence placed in our ability to deliver machines that meet the highest standards of performance and reliability.”
A Long Partnership with the U.S. Military
JCB has supplied equipment to the U.S. military for more than three decades. Its defense lineup includes the High Mobility Engineer Excavator (HMEE), Light Capability Rough Terrain Forklift (LCRTF) and military-configured telescoping track loaders. The 4CX contract adds to that portfolio, reinforcing JCB’s role as a key supplier of earthmoving and material handling machines for defense. The company builds most of these units at its North American headquarters in Savannah, Georgia, using commercial designs adapted with military specifications. Many of the core components are identical to those found in civilian models. From the press release:
“The 4CX is the direct result of more than 70 years of continuous improvement,” said Chris Giorgianni, vice president of government and defense for JCB North America. “It’s built to perform in the most demanding environments, whether that’s military engineering missions or high-pressure construction jobsites.”
4CX Backhoe Loader Features for Military Operations
The 4CX backhoe loader combines commercial productivity with military-grade adaptability. Key features include:
- Side-shift back end with Powerslide for precise boom movement without repositioning
- Three steering modes for tight maneuvering in urban or tactical environments
- Four equal-size tires for better flotation on soft ground
- Equal-length boom and dipper arms with a digging depth over 14 ft and reach beyond 17 ft
- Compact stowed transport length more than 4 ft shorter than conventional designs
The side-shift design also allows full outrigger deployment in confined spaces. These capabilities improve efficiency when working along walls, inside compounds or on crowded jobsites.
Recent Updates to the 3CX and 4CX Backhoes
Earlier this year JCB rolled out significant upgrades to its 3CX and 4CX backhoe models. Improvements include:
- Enhanced roading performance with a six-speed auto-shift transmission and top speed near 30 mph
- New outer box dipper option for better weight distribution and thumb mounting
- Upgraded cab with a 7-in display, Bluetooth, ergonomic joystick controls and improved LED lighting
These updates aim to improve travel efficiency, stability when lifting at full reach and operator comfort during long shifts.
Military-Ready, Jobsite-Proven
From compact loaders to high-speed excavators, JCB continues to blend commercial equipment design with military durability. This approach ensures the U.S. military receives machines that are proven in both combat support and civilian construction. From the press release:
“Our relationship with the military runs deep,” said Giorgianni. “Whether it’s delivering purpose-built machines or hiring the heroes who’ve operated them, we are proud to stand with the men and women who serve.”
Keith Gribbins is publisher of Compact Equipment.
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