M1 Abrams

The M1 Abrams is a U.S. third-generation main battle tank introduced in 1980. It combines a gas-turbine engine, heavy composite armor, and a 105 mm or 120 mm main gun.

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AGT1500: A 1,500-horsepower gas-turbine engine used in the M1 Abrams. The AGT1500 gives the Abrams high power and a distinctive turbine exhaust and fuel profile.
XM1 Abrams: The prototype series developed into the M1 Abrams main battle tank. XM1 trials selected the design that entered U.S. service as the M1.
M1A1 Abrams: An Abrams variant introduced in 1985 with a 120 mm smoothbore gun and other improvements. The M1A1 brought the Abrams’ defining larger-caliber armament into service.
T-72: A Soviet-designed main battle tank introduced in 1973 and widely exported. The T-72 was a common opposing tank in conflicts where Abrams crews fought.
Chobham armour: A composite armor technology combining hard materials in layered arrangements to resist penetrators and shaped charges. The Abrams’ classified composite armor derives from this layered approach.
Chrysler Defense: The defense division of Chrysler Corporation that developed the winning XM1 tank design. Chrysler Defense built the prototype chosen for production before the division was sold to General Dynamics.
M1A2 Abrams: An Abrams variant with improved electronics, independent commander sights, and digital battlefield systems. The M1A2 expanded the tank’s sensing and command capabilities beyond earlier versions.
T-80: A Soviet main battle tank introduced in 1976, notable for its gas-turbine engine in some versions. The T-80 shared the Abrams’ turbine feature, but arose from a different design tradition.
M256: A 120 mm smoothbore tank gun used on later M1 Abrams variants. The M256 replaced the original 105 mm gun on the M1A1.
General Dynamics Land Systems: A U.S. defense company that designs and manufactures armored vehicles, including the Abrams. General Dynamics took over Abrams production from Chrysler Defense in 1982.