Abrams
Mission
Provide heavy armor superiority on the battlefield.
Entered Army Service
1980
Description and Specifications
The Abrams tank closes with and destroys enemy forces on the integrated battlefield using mobility, firepower, and shock effect. There are three variants in service: M1, M1A1 and M1A2. The 120mm main gun on the M1A1 and M1A2, combined with the powerful 1,500 hp turbine engine and special armor, make the Abrams tank particularly suitable for attacking or defending against large concentrations of heavy armor forces on a highly lethal battlefield.
Features of the M1A1 modernization program include increased armor protection; suspension improvements; and a nuclear, biological and chemical (NBC) protection system that increases survivability in a contaminated environment. The M1A1D modification consists of an M1A1 with integrated appliqué computer and a far-target-designation capability.
The M1A2 modernization program includes a commander’s independent thermal viewer, an improved commander’s weapon station, position navigation equipment, a distributed data and power architecture, an embedded diagnostic system and improved fire control systems.
The M1A2 System Enhancement Program (SEP) adds second-generation thermal sensors and a thermal management system. The SEP includes upgrades to processors/memory that enable the M1A2 to use The Army’s common command and control software, enabling the rapid transfer of digital situational data and overlays.
| M1/IPM1 | M1A1 | M1A2 | M1A2 SEP | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Length | 32.04 ft | 32.04 ft | 32.04 ft | 32.04 ft |
| Width | 12 ft | 12 ft | 12 ft | 12 ft |
| Height | 7.79 ft | 8 ft | 8 ft | 8 ft |
| Top Speed | 45 mph | 41.5 mph | 41.5 mph | 42 mph |
| Weight | 61.4/62.8 tons | 67.6 tons | 68.4 tons | 69.5 tons |
| Main Armament | 105mm | 120mm | 120mm | 120mm |
| Crew | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
Manufacturer
General Dynamics (Sterling Heights, MI; Warren, MI; Muskegon, MI; Scranton, PA; Lima, OH; Tallahassee, FL)
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