HS Code 8710 — Tanks and Armoured Fighting Vehicles

This code covers motorised combat vehicles equipped with protective armour. It includes tanks and other armoured vehicles used for tactical operations, whether they are armed with weapons or not.

What's included

Main battle tanks
Armoured personnel carriers (APCs)
Infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs)
Amphibious armoured vehicles
Parts for armoured vehicles

What's excluded

Conventional civilian armoured cars → use 8703 (Standard passenger cars with added armour for VIPs are classified in 8703.)
Self-propelled artillery → use 8710 (Note: Self-propelled guns are categorized here if they are essentially armored vehicles.)

Common examples

M1 Abrams Battle Tank
Stryker Armoured Vehicle
BTR-80 Personnel Carrier
Leopard 2 Tank
Armoured recovery vehicle parts

Frequently asked questions

Does this require an export license?

Yes, almost universally. These items are subject to strict military export controls and international treaties.

Are weapons included in this code?

The vehicle is 8710 even if guns are mounted. However, separate weaponry might be Chapter 93.

Trade & shipping notes

Typical duty range: Varies (often 0% for government end-use)
Documentation: Requires ITAR or equivalent military export authorization and end-use monitoring documentation.
Typical shipping mode: Bulk
Top exporters: United States, Russia, Germany, France, South Korea
Top importers: Saudi Arabia, India, Egypt, Poland, Ukraine

Key takeaway

Restricted to military-grade armoured combat vehicles; requires extensive regulatory compliance.

Tanks and Armoured Fighting Vehicles