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How Ukraine’s Crafty Upgrades to Abrams Tanks Showed the US What to Improve

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Ivan_khomenko
Ivan Khomenko
AUTHOR
How Ukraine’s Crafty Upgrades to Abrams Tanks Showed the US What to Improve
A US Army M1A1 Abrams tank with a mounted mine roller during training for Ukrainian forces in Grafenwoehr, Bavaria, July 2023. The training prepares Ukrainian troops to operate the tanks set to be delivered to Ukraine. (Source: Getty Images)

The United States is advancing its modernization of the M1 Abrams tanks, implementing key upgrades informed by lessons from their deployment in Ukraine. The upgrades focus on improving survivability, mobility, and efficiency in response to modern battlefield challenges.

Notably, several of these improvements mirror modifications already implemented by Ukrainian forces on their Abrams tanks, showcasing Ukraine’s adaptability and innovative approach to modern warfare.

Lessons learned from Ukraine

According to Army Recognition., the deployment of M1A1 Abrams tanks in Ukraine revealed vulnerabilities when facing advanced anti-tank systems, loitering munitions, and the logistical demands of fuel and maintenance. To address these issues, the US Army is integrating advanced technologies into the next-generation M1A3 Abrams. Key features include:

  • A hybrid-electric propulsion system, reducing fuel consumption by 50%.

  • Unmanned turrets to enhance crew safety.

  • Active protection systems to counter drones and loitering munitions.

  • AI-enhanced situational awareness for better targeting and combat efficiency.

These improvements align with challenges encountered in Ukraine, where Abrams tanks faced threats such as Russia’s FPV drones and anti-tank missiles.

Ukraine’s field innovations

Before the US initiated its modernization plans, Ukrainian forces had already undertaken modifications to their Abrams tanks. By installing steel protective cages around critical parts of the tanks, Ukraine enhanced their survivability against drone strikes and missiles. The Steel Front initiative, played a key role in this effort. The steel screens absorb impacts, reducing damage to the tank’s primary armor and improving survivability by an estimated 35%.

These field adaptations proved crucial, with 25 Abrams tanks, alongside numerous Bradleys and Soviet-era tanks, fitted with these enhancements. The steel cages, each costing approximately $20,000 and taking 12 hours to install, were tailored to counter the growing threat of FPV drones on the battlefield.

US modernization plans

The M1A3 Abrams, influenced by the AbramsX technology demonstrator, includes features such as modular systems for rapid upgrades and a lighter chassis for improved mobility. This modernization effort follows feedback from Ukraine’s battlefield, emphasizing survivability and adaptability.

The innovations, spearheaded by Ukraine, demonstrate the value of practical battlefield experience in shaping the future of military technology. By adopting some of these proven solutions, the US ensures that its Abrams tanks remain resilient and effective in modern conflicts.

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