US President Joe Biden announced that Ukraine would receive 31 US-made M1A2 Abrams tanks to strengthen its defensive capability against Russia, marking a major policy shift.
This delivery, aimed at improving Ukraine’s ability to defend its territory and achieve its strategic objectives, has aroused great interest in the military arena.
M1A2 SEPv4 Abrams: A Marvel of warfare engineering
The M1A2 SEPv4 Abrams, developed by Chrysler Defense (now General Dynamics Land Systems) in the 1980s, has established itself as the main battle tank of the US Army. Its revolutionary design has left a deep mark on the history of armored vehicles and continues to be a benchmark today.
One of the most prominent features of the original M1 Abrams was its heavy chassis, which provided greater stability and strength on the battlefield. In addition, it incorporated a multi-fuel turbine engine and Chobham composite armor, providing an unprecedented combination of power and protection.
However, the real highlight of the M1 Abrams was its integrated electronic Fire Control System, which allowed for precise and efficient fire adjustment. Considering variables such as ammunition type and wind speed, this system provided optimal fire solutions, increasing the tank’s lethality.
The Abrams M1A2 SEPV3 (System Enhanced Package) is an upgraded version of the Abrams main battle tank used by the US Army. This modernized configuration offers improved protection, survivability, and lethality compared to its predecessors. The tank incorporates various technological advancements, including upgraded armor, communication systems, reliability, sustainment, and fuel efficiency.
Orders and deliveries for the Abrams M1A2 SEPV3 began in 2015 when the US Army placed an order with General Dynamics Land Systems. Deliveries of the initial production vehicles commenced in October 2017. Subsequently, more orders were placed for the upgrade of additional tanks to the M1A2 SEPV3 standard.
The design of the M1A2 SEPV3 retains the layout of the previous version, with the driver’s cab at the front, the turret in the middle, and the power pack at the rear. The tank incorporates line-replaceable modules for easier maintenance. It also features the joint tactical radio system (JTRS) for improved network readiness and compatibility with future brigade combat teams.
The tank is equipped with an M256 120mm smoothbore cannon as its main gun, capable of firing advanced kinetic energy and multi-purpose rounds. It also has a remotely operated weapon system with a 12.7mm machine gun and a coaxially mounted 7.62mm machine gun.
The M1A2 SEPV3 is fitted with improved forward-looking infrared (FLIR) technology for target detection and engagement. It also includes a day camera with picture-in-picture technology, offering a wider field of view.
The tank has enhanced protection against improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and can be equipped with reactive and slat armor. It also features counter remote-controlled IED electronic warfare systems.
A Honeywell AGT1500 gas turbine engine is powering the tank with a power output of 1,500hp. It has an auxiliary power unit for silent watch operations and improved fuel efficiency. Advanced power generation and distribution systems, as well as a battery monitoring system, are incorporated.
The Abrams M1A2 SEPV3’s mobility is ensured by its running gear, which includes seven road wheels, a rear drive sprocket, a front idler, and two return rollers on each side. The tank also includes features such as smoke grenade dischargers and an engine-operated smokescreen system.
Overall, the Abrams M1A2 SEPV3 represents a significant upgrade to the Abrams tank, incorporating advanced technologies to enhance its battlefield protection, firepower, and mobility.
The M1A2 SEPv4: Innovation and superiority
The latest development version of the M1 Abrams, the M1A2 SEPv4, features significant improvements in multiple aspects. Currently undergoing testing at the US Army’s Yuma Proving Ground, this tank promises to raise the bar even higher.
SEPv4 incorporates advances in vision, communications and on-board diagnostic systems. With improvements to the gunner’s and commander’s primary vision systems, this tank increases its target acquisition capability and improves lethality on the battlefield.
In addition, it has an innovative weather sensor that improves accuracy in adverse weather conditions and a Laser Warning Receiver (LWR) system that alerts the crew to the presence of laser beams associated with weapons such as anti-tank guided missiles, thus improving its capability of survival.
Trophy: An ally in protection
The M1A2 SEPv4 is also compatible with the Trophy active protection system developed by Israel. This highly effective system against anti-tank missiles and rocket-propelled grenades increases the security of armored vehicles. It allows crews to act more offensively and take greater risks on the battlefield.
Therefore, the M1A2 SEPv4 Abrams is a logical choice for Ukraine, especially considering the current tension in the region. The tank can take on any ground threat with its Chobham composite armor, integrated electronic fire control system, and 120mm gun.
Additionally, the M1A2 SEPv4’s ability to fire the Javelin-guided missile provides additional anti-tank capability to deal with any threat on the battlefield.
