US plans major overhaul for Abrams tanks, incorporating AI and hybrid power

The United States' plans to modernize its M1A1 Abrams tanks after their deployment in Ukraine highlighted significant vulnerabilities and logistical difficulties.

According to Army Recognition's analysis, as part of the military's ongoing efforts to improve tank survivability and operational efficiency, the next generation, the M1A3 modification, will address the critical issues revealed during combat operations, per Caliber.Az.

The M1A1 Abrams tanks faced high vulnerability to advanced anti-tank weapons such as the Javelin and Stugna-P, which have been widely used by opposing forces in Ukraine. Additionally, the tanks experienced challenges related to their weight, which made transportation and mobility difficult, and their high fuel consumption, which strained logistical capabilities.

The M1A3 modification will focus on overcoming these problems, with several key design changes that aim to improve survivability, reduce operational costs, and enhance the tank's performance on the battlefield:

1. Hybrid-Electric Propulsion System: A significant upgrade to the powertrain will be the integration of a hybrid-electric propulsion system, which is expected to reduce fuel consumption by as much as 50%. This innovation will make the tanks more fuel-efficient, addressing one of the most significant logistical challenges faced by the M1A1 in Ukraine.

2. Modular Open Systems Architecture: To ensure the tanks can quickly adapt to future technological advancements, the M1A3 will feature a modular open systems architecture. This will enable faster integration of new technologies and upgrades, keeping the Abrams relevant in the face of rapidly evolving threats.

3. Unmanned Turret: One of the most notable changes in the M1A3 will be the incorporation of an unmanned turret. This will enhance crew safety by reducing the risk of casualties from direct hits to the turret, which has been a vulnerability in the M1A1.

4. Active Defence Systems: To counter emerging threats, such as drones and advanced anti-tank munitions, the M1A3 will be equipped with active defence systems. These systems will be designed to neutralize incoming threats before they can reach the tank, providing an additional layer of protection for crew members.

5. Artificial Intelligence Integration: The M1A3 will also integrate artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to improve situational awareness and automatic targeting. AI will assist the crew in identifying and responding to threats more effectively, reducing reaction times and improving battlefield efficiency.

The M1A1's performance in Ukraine has proven to be a significant learning experience, with the M1A3 set to address these critical vulnerabilities, making the Abrams tank more adaptable to modern warfare challenges. With these upgrades, the United States hopes to enhance the effectiveness of its tank fleet and maintain its strategic edge on the battlefield.

By Tamilla Hasanova