The M1E3 Abrams is scheduled to be ready concurrently with the future XM30 infantry fighting vehicles. The timeline and success of this project will significantly depend on the budget allocated for developing the necessary advanced technologies for the tank. A detailed development schedule is currently under review and is expected to be finalized by this fall, with GDLS and the U.S. Army commencing initial development work on the M1E3.
The decision to develop a new configuration of the Abrams tank was made in the fall of last year, moving away from the further evolution of the current M1A2 SEPv4 version. The M1E3, likely to be designated as the M1A3, aims to embody a more ambitious and innovative approach, featuring substantial design changes.
Over the next 18 months, several critical technologies will be refined, including an automatic loader, improved crew operational capabilities from within the vehicle, alternative propulsion systems, and active protection systems. The new tank’s weight is projected to decrease from the current approximately 66,000 kg to around 54,000 kg, aligning with the weight of the original Abrams production variants.
Achieving this weight reduction without compromising armor protection will require a different configuration approach. Considerations include changing the crew layout, potentially eliminating the loader position in favor of an automatic loader. Additionally, the implementation of an unmanned or optionally manned turret is under evaluation, which would reduce the turret’s size. The propulsion system may adopt a hybrid configuration to lower fuel consumption and noise levels. Active protection systems (ASOP) will be an essential feature of the new vehicle.
The future M1E3 Abrams is designed to operate within the U.S. Army’s Armored Brigade Combat Teams alongside the XM30 infantry fighting vehicles. The competition to replace the M2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicle currently involves GDLS and American Rheinmetall Vehicles. The winner of this competition is expected to be announced at the end of fiscal year 2027 or early 2028.
