It
was realized during the mid 1960's that the U.S. Military would need a new
tank to replace the M-60's and M-48's then in service. Replacement of
these existing tanks was estimated to be in the early 1980's and a project
was initiated and named MBT-70, Main Battle Tank 70, After extensive
research this project and another call XP-803 were cancelled, and in
February 1972, under the direction of General Creighton W. Abrams, a main
Battle Tank Task Force was formed, consisting of armored corps experts and
engineers. In January 1973 their final study results were approved and bid
requests were sent to General Motors and Chrysler Corporation in June of
73. In November 1976, Chrysler was named a contract winner, and was issued
a request of 11 test tanks. The first tank was unveiled to the public on
February 3, 1978, and in early 1979 all eleven tanks had been delivered to
various posts around the USA for testing. Production began in February
1980, and it was officially named, and christened by the widow of the late
General Abrams.The
M1 tank is a complete change in design from the current line of tanks. It
is no longer the bulky shaped, massive appearing vehicle so familiar to
historians. The new turret is very angular and squat, yet has a very roomy
interior, and was designed to mount the 105mm or larger gun. Although much
still remains classified about this vehicle, it is assumed that it
utilizes spaced armor for protection against hollow charges. Three of the
four crewmen are located in the turret. Commander, gunner and loader, with
the driver located in the center forward part of the hull.
The Abrams hull is totally different from the M-48 and M-60 hulls. Sides
and rear are vertical, with only the front angled to deflect A-T shots.
There are no rounded surfaces except for the front fenders, and attached
to each side are six armor skirts to protect
the suspension system and hull. Each of these plates are hinged at the top
to allow upward movement for working on the roadwheels etc. Perhaps the
biggest change in the M-1 is the choice of power-plant.
After considerable thought on the subject, the 1500hp Avco-Lycoming AGT
Turbine Engine was selected. Although there have been teething problems
with this new engine, it is felt that it will provide a much longer
service life, lower maintenance, choice of gas, diesel or jet fuels and
approximately 1200 hours between overhaul. It has remarkable performance
figures and can accelerate the 59 ton M1 from 0 - 20 mph in 6.1 seconds
and sustain a 44 mph on hard surfaced and 35 mph on cross country roads.
It has approximately three times the durability of existing diesel
engines, starts easily, which means in can be shut down to conserve fuel
and reduce engine wear.
The M-1 uses a laser rangefinder, rather than the usual optical system. In
conjunction with the laser unit, a day-night sight and ballistics computer
requires that the gunner only sight the target, activate the laser to
obtain range, then press the firing switch. The computer will take the
wind readings, barrel wear, adjust for elevation and selects the best
moment for firing. Estimates on first hit capability is 90%. It also
maintains a backup manual sighting system. With production started, and
the first shipments made to overseas theatres, the M1 Abrams Main Battle
Tanks are sure to become familiar to all involved with military history
and modeling.
(From Tamiya Manual) |
Specification
:
Country of
Origin :
Crew
: 4
Armament : 1x105mm, 1x7.62mm MG (coaxial), 1x7.62 mm MG(AA),
1x12.7mm MG(AA), 2x6 smoke dischargers
Ammunition : 55 x 105mm, 1,000 x 12.7mm, 11,400 x 7.62mm
Engine : Textron Lycoming AGT 1500 Gas turbine developing 1,500hp
at 3,000rpm |
Length
gun forwards : 9.766m
Length hull : 7.918m
Width : 3.653m
Height over turret roof : 2.375m
Power-to-weight ratio : 27hp/tonne
Maximum road speed : 72.421km/hr
Fuel capacity : 1,907 lit.
Vertical obstacle : 1.244m
Trench : 2.743m
Armor : Classified
NBC system : Yes
Height
overall : 2.885m
Ground Clearance : 0.482m
Weight, combat : 54,545kg
Ground Pressure : -
Maximum road range : 498 km
Fording : -
Gradient : 60%
Side slope : 40%
Armor type : Laminate/steel
Night Vision Equipment : Yes |
|