The LVT(A)-4 was the logical progression from the earlier LVT(A)-1 support amphibious armoured vehicle, as it became clear that the earlier model's 37mm gun could not do much damage to Japanese bunkers. The turret of the M8 'Scott' with its 75mm short barrel howitzer was the answer. Along with a .50 and two .30 machineguns this was a mighty provider of fire support towards the later stages of the Pacific island hopping campaign. Over 1800 were produced by the end of the war.