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XM1 Abrams
XM1 Abrams named after General Creighton Abrams, former Army Chief of Staff and Commander of US military forces in Vietnam. First prototypes are delivered -
M1 Abrams
The XM1 is selected for development as the M1, Chrysler Defense (later purchased by General Dynamics Land Systems Division) is awarded the contract to produce 3, 273 tanks . -
Entered into Service
The first M1 Tanks entered service in 1980. The main armament was the 105 millimeter cannon, -
M1IP
The M1 (improved) IP was introduced and contained upgrades to the fire control system. -
M1A1
The M1A1 version had significant updates: 120MM main-gun, improved armor protection, chemical protection, and improved fire control system. 6000 vehicles ordered. -
Gulf War
The Abrams fleet is battle tested and preforms admirably, only 23 vehicles are lost. -
M1A2
Upgraded to commander's independent thermal viewer and weapon station. -
M1A2 SEP
SEP (System Enhancement Package) added digital maps and an improved cooling system to maintain crew compartment temperature with the addition of multiple computer systems to the M1A2 tank. -
Iraq war - Present
M1 tanks lead the charge to oust Saddam Hussein. The Abrams fleet continues to serve and expected to stay in service until 2050.