The latest Abrams variant is an upgrade package, the M1A2SEP V3. Many of its features are practical rather than seductive upgraded computers, and a new Auxiliary Power Unit that allows the Abrams to keep its sophisticated systems running while the engine is off, improving the fuel efficiency of Abram’s notoriously thirsty turbine engines. Maintainability is improved with modular, replaceable cabling. The Army is currently planning to develop a more radical upgraded Abrams by 2020, the M1A3. Details are sketchy, but reducing Abram’s roughly seventy-ton weight appears to be one of the priorities. Certainly, the weight has limited the ability to deploy the Abrams around the world and restricted which bridges it can cross. Features specifically mentioned include a lighter-weight gun, replacing the wiring with fiber-optic cables to shave off two tons of weight, improved suspension, and adding a Laser Warning Receiver. Other improvements are doubtlessly being considered, but specifics are lacking for now.
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