The M1 Abrams is modern US main battle tank. The Abrams name refer to General Creighton Abrams, former Army Chief of Staff and Commander of US military forces in Vietnam. The M1 Abrams is a best armed, heavily armored, and highly mobile tank designed for modern armored ground warfare. Notable features of the M1 Abrams include the use of a powerful gas turbine engine, the adoption of sophisticated composite armor, and separate ammunition storage in a blow-out compartment for crew safety. M1 Abrams is one of the heaviest tanks in service, weighing in at close to 68 short tons.
| Weight | 67.6 short tons (61.4 metric tons) |
|---|---|
| Length | Gun forward: 32.04 ft (9.77 m) Hull length: 26.02 ft (7.93 m) |
| Width | 12 ft (3.66 m) |
| Height | 8 ft (2.44 m) |
| Crew | 4 (commander, gunner, loader, driver) |
The M1 Abrams entered U.S. service in 1980, replacing the 105 mm gun, full tracked M60 Patton main battle tank. Three main versions of the M1 Abrams have been deployed, the M1, M1A1, and M1A2, incorporating improved armament, protection and electronics. These improvements, as well as periodic upgrades to older tanks have allowed this long-serving vehicle to remain in front-line service. It is the principal main battle tank of the United States Army and Marine Corps, and the armies of Egypt, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and since 2007, Australia.
