[1] The M1120 LHS variant was initially introduced as part of the HEMTT overhaul/rebuild programme, during which returned M977 Cargo variants have their cargo bodies and materials handling cranes removed, to be replaced by a Multilift Mark 5 (now designated MPH165-LHS) load handling system, as fitted to the Oshkosh PLS truck.

[1] The chassis of the M1120 is formed of 257 × 89 × 9.5 mm heat-treated carbon manganese steel with a yield strength of 758 MPa.

An EPA 2004 compliant Caterpillar (CAT) C-15 six-cylinder, 15.2-liter diesel developing a peak of 515 hp is fitted to HEMTT A4 models.

HEMTT A2 models have an Allison HD 4560P 6F/1R automatic transmission coupled to an Oshkosh 5500 series 2-speed transfer case, while A4 varinats are fitted with an Allison 4500SP 5F/1R automatic transmission and an uprated version of the 55,000 series two-speed transfer case.

[1] The M1120 HEMTT LHS is fitted with Multilift Mark 5 (now designated MPH165-PLS) load handling system, this an imperial variant of the Mark 4/MPH165 that is further-modified to include a folding hook arm to bring the system within C-130 Hercules air-transport height constraints.

The MKVI LHS (now designated MPH165-CBT) is a further development of the MPH165-PLS and has additional fixings and hydraulic couplings for the Bridge Adapter Pallet (BAP).

[1][3][4] The Multilift MPH (Military Pivoting Hooklift) range is based around commercially proven technologies, the overall system performance being improved by enhancing below ground pick up and the ability to load misaligned flatracks, both important military operational requirements.

The complete system is designed to be used in all operational conditions, including darkness or while wearing nuclear, biological and chemical (NBC) protective equipment.

An automatic, fully sequenced control system mounted in the cab aids operational safety and maximises speed, even under battle conditions.

The MPH range was designed and optimised to load, transport and unload flatracks conforming to the NATO standard (STANAG 2413).

Payloads such as MLRS rockets, light armoured vehicles and command/control shelters can also be transported by using purpose-built flatracks with the correct locking systems built in.