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XM1 Abrams named after General Creighton Abrams, former Army Chief of Staff and Commander of US military forces in Vietnam. First prototypes are delivered
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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 .
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The first M1 Tanks entered service in 1980. The main armament was the 105 millimeter cannon,
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The M1 (improved) IP was introduced and contained upgrades to the fire control system.
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The M1A1 version had significant updates: 120MM main-gun, improved armor protection, chemical protection, and improved fire control system. 6000 vehicles ordered.
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The Abrams fleet is battle tested and preforms admirably, only 23 vehicles are lost.
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Upgraded to commander's independent thermal viewer and weapon station.
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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.
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M1 tanks lead the charge to oust Saddam Hussein. The Abrams fleet continues to serve and expected to stay in service until 2050.