purpose
Marine equipment is not typically described as being "heavy," but exceptions can be made when "heavily armored" and "heavily armed" are also part of the description. At close to 70 tons, the M1A1 Abrams is among the heaviest tanks in the world, but it more than makes up for its heft with tremendous firepower and surprising maneuverability. The principal battle tank of the Marine Corps, the M1A1 provides armor-protected firepower in support of Marine ground forces.
features
- Bulk of firepower comes from its 120mm smoothbore main gun
- Mounted guns include a M2 .50 cal machine gun and two M240 machine guns
- 2 six-barreled smoke grenade launchers
- Powered by a 1,500 horsepower gas turbine power plant system
- Speeds top out at approximately 41 mph
- Ammunition is stored in a blowout compartment for crew safety
- Operated by a crew of four Marines
- Six periscopes provide 360-degree view
roles
Just a few of the enlisted M1A1 roles include:
- Tank Gunner
- Tank Driver
- Tank Loader
- Main Battle Tank Repairer/Technician
View a list of roles in the Marine Corps.
Video
M1A1 Abrams Tank
Powered by a 1,500 horsepower gas turbine power plant system, the M1A1 Abrams Tank can reach speeds of approximately 41 mph—surprisingly fast for a vehicle that weighs close to 70 tons.
Photos
