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War Thunder's EFV: Amphibious Event Powerhouse Deep Dive

Last Updated: November 1, 2025

War Thunder EFV amphibious light tank in action.

In late 2025, War Thunder's "Semper Fidelis" event introduced one of the most unique vehicles to the American ground forces lineup: the Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle (EFV). What was once a highly anticipated prize has since cemented its legacy as a formidable and exceptionally mobile light tank.

This Rank VI event-exclusive reward reshaped tactical possibilities with its unparalleled blend of speed, advanced firepower, and game-changing aquatic capabilities. Let's take a deep dive into the vehicle that continues to make waves in high-tier battles.

A Modern Amphibious Contender

The grand prize for ground vehicle enthusiasts during the "Semper Fidelis" event was the American Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle (EFV). Classified as a light tank, this marvel of military engineering became a coveted reward for dedicated players who completed the event's challenges. The EFV is far from just another tank; its amphibious nature distinguishes it as a master of tactical repositioning, capable of traversing water obstacles at blistering speeds, offering unprecedented flanking and assault opportunities on maps with significant water features.

Based on a real-world prototype designed for the U.S. Marine Corps as a high-speed, over-the-horizon assault vehicle, the EFV's in-game counterpart lives up to its ambitious design.

Vehicle Profile: Speed, Firepower, and Technology

The EFV’s performance in War Thunder translates its real-world design into a set of formidable in-game characteristics that skillful commanders can exploit.

  • Exceptional Mobility: The EFV's defining feature is its incredible speed. On land, its 1,200 horsepower engine can propel it to over 72 km/h (45 mph). But its true potential is unleashed in the water. By deploying a hydraulic bow flap and activating powerful water jets, the EFV enters a planing mode, achieving astonishing speeds of over 45 km/h (28 mph) on water—far exceeding any other amphibious vehicle in the game. This allows EFV commanders to rapidly relocate, bypass conventional choke points, and launch surprise attacks from entirely unexpected vectors.
  • Potent Firepower: While many light tanks sacrifice firepower for speed, the EFV packs a significant punch. It is armed with a fully stabilized 30mm MK44 Bushmaster II autocannon, capable of firing potent APFSDS (Armor-Piercing Fin-Stabilized Discarding Sabot) rounds that can easily shred the sides of main battle tanks and make short work of lighter vehicles. This high-velocity cannon allows the EFV to act as a deadly hunter, not just a scout.
  • Advanced Combat Systems: As a modern fighting vehicle, the EFV comes equipped with a suite of advanced technology. It features high-resolution thermal imaging for both the gunner and commander, a laser rangefinder, and full scouting capabilities. These systems make it an incredibly effective reconnaissance vehicle and a lethal predator in any weather condition, day or night.
  • Light Armor Profile: The trade-off for its remarkable speed is its armor. The EFV is protected by aluminum alloy armor, making it vulnerable to everything from heavy machine guns to dedicated anti-tank weaponry. Survival depends entirely on a player's skill in using its superb mobility and low profile to avoid being hit, rather than trying to absorb damage.

How the EFV Was Obtained

During the Semper Fidelis event, the EFV was the main ground vehicle reward. Players had to complete a series of in-game tasks over several weeks. These objectives typically involved achieving a specific number of kills, assists, or victories in battles. Completing a set of these tasks awarded a "Mark of Distinction," and collecting the required number of marks unlocked the EFV permanently.

For those who missed the event, the EFV is now a rare collector's item. The only way to acquire it today is through the Gaijin Marketplace, where players can purchase it from others who originally earned it. Its rarity and unique capabilities often command a premium price, making it a true badge of honor for any collection.

Lasting Impact on High-Tier Gameplay

Since its introduction, the EFV has profoundly impacted the high-tier meta. Its unparalleled amphibious speed proved to be a game-changer on maps like Port Novorossiysk, Vietnam, and Bering Sea, where water was once a slow-moving obstacle. An EFV can cross entire bodies of water faster than many tanks can cross a field, allowing it to capture strategic points or establish devastating flanking positions before the enemy team is even aware of the threat.

It excels as a top-tier scout, a rapid-response vehicle to defend captured objectives, and a vicious flanker. Its presence forces opposing teams to remain constantly vigilant of their waterside flanks. In the American tech tree, the EFV synergizes perfectly with powerful MBTs like the Abrams series, providing the fast-moving reconnaissance and support needed to break stalemates and secure victory. For any commander facing one, the EFV is a high-priority target, but for the player driving it, it remains one of the most dynamic and rewarding light tanks in War Thunder.