The M1 Abrams (/ ˈeɪbrəmz /) [8] is a third-generation American main battle tank designed by Chrysler Defense (now General Dynamics Land Systems) and named for General Creighton Abrams. Conceived for modern armored ground warfare, it is one of the heaviest tanks in service at nearly 73.6 short tons (66.8 metric tons).
The U.S. Army has formally approved the Abrams M1E3 Engineering Change Proposal in its Fiscal Year 2026 Acquisition Program, canceling the previously planned M1A2 SEPv4 upgrade.
U.S. Army Confirms Abrams M1E3 as Fifth Generation Tank Not M1A2 SEPv4
The M1E3 is the biggest Abrams redesign in 40 years. Here is everything publicly known about the Army's next-generation main battle tank.
Background The M-1 Abrams Tank (Figure 1) is designed to maneuver under fire and destroy enemy armored forces on the battlefield. The M-1 is named for General Creighton Abrams, a noted World War II armored battalion commander who later served as Army Chief of Staff from 1972 to 1974.
US Army and USMC main battle tank of the last three decades. The M1 Abrams gained fame in the two gulf wars and in Afghanistan.
Known for its formidable firepower, advanced armor, and outstanding mobility, it has been a cornerstone of the U.S. military’s armored forces since its introduction. If you’re curious about the M1 Abrams tank — from its armor to its top speed and even inside features — this guide will cover it all.
The M1 Abrams was developed in the late 1970s by Chrysler Defense, later absorbed into General Dynamics Land Systems, to replace the aging M60 Patton tank. It emerged after the cancellation of the ill‑fated MBT‑70 project and was designed specifically for modern armored combat, emphasizing survivability, mobility, and firepower.