The vehicles vary in individual configuration by mission requirements, with three variants in service: a cargo, a wrecker and a tractor truck.

The LVSR is the USMC's equivalent of the U.S. Army’s Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck (HEMTT) and Palletized Load System (PLS).

The Marines do not use the HEMTT or PLS[4] and the Army does not use the LVSR, but both services use a common trailer (M1076) with all three truck types.

[5] As a precursor to a formal LVS replacement programme a number of manufacturers co-operated with the USMC to build and evaluate an Advanced Technology Demonstrator (ATD).

LVS Modification Demonstrators (LVS-MDs) were also built, these integrating commercially proven automotive components and technologies.

[5] In April 2001, Logistics Management Institute (LMI) completed their final report for the 'Analysis of Alternatives (AoA) for the USMC Logistics Vehicle System Replacement (LVSR), concluding the best option was to rebuy a vehicle similar to the technology demonstrator.

[5] An initial LVSR order issued on 31 May 2006 was valued at $28 million and ordered 22 cargo, two wrecker (recovery), and tractor truck LVSR variants, plus vehicle kits, training (operator/maintainer-cargo), test support-production verification testing cargo, meetings, and contract data requirements.

[citation needed] The LVSR is powered by a 15.2-litre Caterpillar C15 six-cylinder in-line turbocharged, water-cooled four-stroke diesel, developing 600 hp (448 kW).

Suspension is Oshkosh TAK-4 fully independent all-round, and by coil springs on the front two axles, hydraulic on the rear three.

[5] The LVSR cargo variant is fitted with a hooklift-type load handling system, and all adapters and lift hardware are stored on the vehicle.

[5] The LVSR has been designed to complement the USMC Oshkosh MTVR fleet with both types sharing some common parts and similar maintenance training.

[5] The benefits of the A-kit/B-kit principle are that armor is only fitted when required, this reducing vehicle wear and tear, and by default whole life cycle costs.