The M1A2 Abrams tank is the US Armyrsquos primary battle tank and the M1A2 Systems Enhancement Package aims to bring formerly standard models up to the current capability

Pentagon Contracts General Dynamics for More Tank Updates

Feb. 3, 2014
Ongoing program updates tanks to current standard New work order continues through 2015

The U.S. Army TACOM Lifecycle Management Command placed a $72.7-million order with General Dynamics Land Systems to update 12 M1A1 Abrams tanks with the M1A2 Systems Enhancement Package, under terms of an existing contract. The M1A1 is one of three variants of the U.S. Army’s primary battle tank, first produced in 1985, and the M1A2 SEP was developed to bring it up to the standard of the subsequent M1A2 variant.

The TACOM LCMC, headquartered in Warren, Mich., manages programs aimed at maintaining “mobility, lethality, and survivability” for the U.S. armed forces, and allies.

In 2008, the U.S. Dept. of Defense extended a multi-year contract to General Dynamics authorizing the upgrade of 435 M1A1 tanks that had been in the Army’s inventory for over 20 years.

General Dynamics Land Systems business unit produces wheeled, tracked, and amphibious combat vehicles, including the Abrams tanks. In 2011, General Dynamics agreed to buy Force Protection Inc. for $360 million, incorporating the contractor that specializes in armored systems that protect occupants from landmines, hostile fire, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). It developed the U.S. military's Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle program that updates armored vehicles for greater combat protection.  

General Dynamics is converting the tanks to the M1A2 SEP V2 configuration, which is described as “the most technologically advanced digital tank,” with improved color displays, day and night thermal sights, commander remote operated weapon station (CROWS II), a Thermal Management System (TMS), and a tank-infantry phone. “The M1A2 SEP V2 maximizes the fighting ability of the tank on today’s battlefield while preparing the platform for tomorrow’s challenges,” according to General Dynamics.

Production on the updates will be carried out through December 31, 2015, at plants in Anniston, Ala.; Tallahassee, Fla.; Sterling Heights, Mich.; Lima, Ohio; and Scranton, Pa.

About the Author

Robert Brooks | Content Director

Robert Brooks has been a business-to-business reporter, writer, editor, and columnist for more than 20 years, specializing in the primary metal and basic manufacturing industries.

Latest from News

Alexander Gordeyev | Dreamstime
Close-up cutting tool insert.
Typhoonski | Dreamstime
New truck rear axle exhibited at the International Motor Show for Commercial Vehicles 2012, Hannover Germany.
Ai © Petr Kahanek | Dreamstime
Staging area; steel slabs prepared for processing; AI generated.
VanderWolfImages
Boeing 777X at the 2023 Paris Air Show. Le Bourget Airport, France.
Uxia Vazquez Losada
At Madrid airport, a LEAP-1A engine by CFM International in place on an Airbus 320 NEO aircraft.