The US Army announced on 7/1 that the first M1E3 prototype, featuring advanced technology designed to revolutionize the battlefield, is complete. Built by Roush company based on risk reduction efforts, this prototype demonstrates the US Army's commitment to speed, flexibility, and soldier-centric solutions.

The US Army stated that the M1E3 prototype's key features include "advanced software, enhanced maneuverability, and unparalleled combat power." They consider the M1E3 tank a milestone in applying real-world experience and rapidly deploying technology to support soldiers, adding that testing will commence early this year.

A partial view of the M1E3 Abrams main battle tank prototype in an image released on 7/1. US Army

The US Army also released partial images of the M1E3. The first image shows two doors on the hull's front, typically the driver's position, along with the front of the turret and new LED lighting. On the turret's front, next to the main gun, there appears to be a camera linked to a panoramic observation system for the vehicle.

"The M1E3 design differs significantly from existing Abrams variants. Older Abrams models have only one front door for the driver, with the three remaining crew members seated in the turret," noted Joseph Trevithick, an editor at US military news site War Zone.

Trevithick suggested that the M1E3's main gun appears similar to the 120 mm M256 model found on current Abrams tanks. The M1E3 series could be equipped with a larger or more advanced main gun during development. It also has the potential to carry other weapons, such as a drone launcher.

A partial view of the M1E3 Abrams main battle tank prototype in an image released on 7/1. US Army

The US Army confirmed that the new generation Abrams tanks will feature an autoloader, a component previously absent from the Abrams line. This automatic loading mechanism could reduce the Abrams crew from 4 people to 3 people, or allow the loader to perform other tasks, such as operating drones.

"The M1E3 design differs significantly from the AbramsX prototype, which General Dynamics Land Systems, the current Abrams manufacturer, first unveiled in 2022," Trevithick stated.

According to Trevithick, changes such as a lower turret, rearranged crew positions, and an autoloader system could reduce the overall size and weight of the new generation Abrams tank. "Weight has always been a significant issue for this tank series since its first version was commissioned in the 1980s," the US expert said.

The two initial Abrams models, M1 and M1A1, weighed 60 and 63 tons respectively, while the latest variant used by the US military, the M1A2 SEP v3, weighs 78 tons. The US Army previously expressed hope of reducing the M1E3's weight to 60 tons.

An M1A2 SEP v3 tank at Fort Hood base, Texas, US, 7/2020. US Army

The M1E3 tank is expected to use a hybrid engine, offering significant fuel savings compared to the current gas turbine engine. Alex Miller, science and technology advisor to the US Army Commander, stated that the M1E3 would save approximately 40% more fuel than the older model.

"This will be a hybrid system; the M1E3 is not an electric tank. We do not want to build an entirely electric tank because there is no charging infrastructure," Miller said.

The US launched the M1E3 project amidst intense debate about the future role of tanks and heavy armor, as modern battlefields feature numerous inexpensive weapons capable of destroying expensive armored vehicles. Last year, the US Army canceled the M10 Booker light tank project due to design issues and the vehicle being too heavy for its requirements.

Nguyen Tien (According to War Zone, AFP, AP)