As the American island hopping campaign in the Pacific Theatre of Operations got underway, ity became clear that there was a need for an armoured version of the LVT. It was also clear that the vehicle should be capable of providing fire support, so the LVT(A)-1 was the logical outcome. Armed with the simple expedient of plonking a M3 Stuart37mm turret on top of the chassis, along with co-ax MG, as well as two further MG cupolas to the rear, this LVT packed a hefty punch. Over 500 were produced.