M1A1 Firepower Enhancements Program: Maintaining the Combat Edge of the M1A1

Abstract

The M1A1 Abrams is arguably the world's finest main battle tank. Originally built to fight against numerically superior Soviet tanks forces as an Army platform, the M1A1, when it was fielded in the early 1980's, represented an evolutionary leap forward in armor design. The M1A1 entered Marine Corps service shortly be Operation Desert Storm in 1990. Since Operation Desert Storm and up to the present conflicts in Operation Iraq Freedom I and II, the tank has proven decisive. In all these campaigns, the Abrams outmatched the Soviet designed armor fielded by Iraqi forces. Furthermore, during more recent operations in Fallujah, as well as other Stability and Security Operations, the M1A1 has proved itself an invaluable asset when dealing with Iraqi insurgents. Though the Abrams is formidable, it's utility comes from being able to maintain its lethality, mobility and survivability over its opponents. However, if left unimproved, it is only a matter of time before threat systems close the gap with the M1A1.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Feb 08, 2005
Accession Number
ADA504575

Entities

People

  • C. S. Roos

Organizations

  • Marine Corps University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Ammunition
  • Armored Vehicles
  • Control Systems
  • Fire Control Systems
  • Firepower
  • Global Positioning Systems
  • Identification
  • Iraqi-War
  • Laser Rangefinding
  • Light Armored Vehicles
  • Marine Corps
  • Position (Location)
  • Situational Awareness
  • Test And Evaluation
  • United States
  • Vehicles
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Military History / Militaries and War Studies
  • Military History of the United States in the 20th Century.
  • Military Science and Technology Research and Modernization.