Abrams Tanks: Five Fast Facts

The heavy main American tank was designed in the 1970s for use in a large conventional ground war. Its utility has evolved along with its deployments.

The M1 Abrams battle tank. Since its introduction into the U.S. Army in 1980 the tank has undergone several important upgrades including various armor upgrades to the hull and turret, transparent protective gun shields and dual sights for the main 120 mm gun (one for use by the gunner, one for the tank commander). (Image: U.S. Army).

President Biden announced on January 25 that the U.S. would send American-made M1A1 Abrams battle tanks to Ukraine as it battles the ongoing invasion from Russia. Media reports — as well as Ukrainian leadership — indicate that the first Abrams tanks have now arrived in Ukraine.

Here are five fast facts about the potent battle tank that has served as the main tank for U.S. ground forces since the early 1980s.

1. The current version of the Abrams tank (M1A2) weighs nearly 80 tons — fifteen tons heavier than the British Challenger 2 main battle tank. Current versions have received enhanced armor, more sensors and heavier weapons. The tanks were first manufactured by Chrysler Defense, which is now General Dynamics Land Systems.
2. The Abrams first use in actual combat was during the Persian Gulf War in 1991. The tank was superior to Iraqi army tanks given its ability to fire the 120 mm smoothbore main gun over long distances and in night conditions. No Abrams tanks were destroyed by enemy fire during the Gulf War.
3. The M1A2 Abrams has a crew of four — a commander, driver, gunner and loader/operator. Its top speed is about 42 mph.
4. Production costs for the M1A1 version in the mid-1980s was about $4.3 million per tank. New versions of the tank cost nearly $9 million when training and maintenance are included.
5. Egypt, Australia, Saudi Arabia and Morocco are just some of the countries which utilize M1 Abrams tanks.

The M1 Abrams battle tank. As during previous conflicts, modern tank capabilities such as those on the M1 will continually adapt to changing threats, as witnessed by the current conflict in Ukraine. (YouTube video).

M1A1 firing main gun in California testing range in 2018. (Image: Creative Commons/Naval Surface Warriors).