TechAmericans to shift Abrams tank production to completely new models

Americans to shift Abrams tank production to completely new models

Abrams tank assembly line
Abrams tank assembly line
Images source: © Lima Tank Plant
Łukasz Michalik

23 May 2024 15:08

Although the M1A2SEPv3 Abrams tanks delivered to the army and foreign clients are described as new, in practice, they are built using old components with reset lifespans. Soon, the situation will change – the Americans plan to start producing entirely new Abrams tanks.

Although the M1A2SEPv3 tanks are described as new, their lifespan (mileage) is zero. However, they practically contain elements manufactured even decades ago, such as old hulls.

On the production line, old parts like the hulls are supplemented with new armour modules, which are then used as new components in the assembly process of new tanks.

The increase in international tension has caused the Americans to recognize the need to end the current practice, which made the delivery of new primary tanks dependent on the availability of old components.

For this reason, the Joint Systems Manufacturing Center production facility received significant funding to expand its production base, enabling it to produce entirely new tanks, such as the M1A2SEPv3 and, in the future, the next development version, M1A3.

As noted by Defence24, funding for the American tank factory aims to resume Abrams production and produce other armoured vehicles. The facility will begin producing, among other things, the light M10 Booker tank and the new version of the wheeled Stryker transporter.

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