The M9 is a highly mobile, armored, amphibious combat earthmover capable of supporting forces in both offensive and defensive operations. It performs critical combat engineer tasks such as digging hull defilade fighting positions for guns, tanks and other battlefield systems to increase their survivability. The ACE breaches berms, prepares anti-tank ditches, prepares combat roads, removes roadblocks and prepares access routes at water obstacles. In a pinch the M9 can also carry about 5 guys in the Holding Chamber and 2 behind the engine and Driver Compartment for a total of 7 guys.