New M1E3 Abrams Officially Presented in the U.S.: Key Changes

In the United States, a prototype of the latest version of the M1E3 Abrams main battle tank has been officially presented.

Military analyst The Chieftain shared the photos on his X (formerly Twitter) account.

Even a brief look at the images shows that the M1E3 differs markedly from its predecessor, the M1A2 SEP.

Chassis

The most noticeable feature is the chassis: both the upper and lower frontal armor plates have been reinforced with additional armor. The tank is fitted with new headlights and a forward-facing camera mounted in a dedicated recess integrated into the upper frontal plate.

As a result, the driver no longer has a hatch or triplex vision blocks. Visually, the upper frontal plate appears to be divided into three distinct sections.

This appears to be a modular design, enabling rapid replacement of damaged components. The upper section of the add-on armor features structures that resemble access or maintenance hatches.

These are most likely intended to provide access to the tank’s integrated electronic systems.

The hull sides have also received enhanced armor protection. In contrast, the rear of the hull has not undergone any visible changes, despite the installation of a new hybrid engine and transmission.
At least visually, the tank appears unusually low. This may indicate the use of a new hydropneumatic suspension.

Turret

The turret has undergone significant changes. Its distinctive “cheeks” remain intact, but a large extension has been added to the rear. This is where the gun’s autoloader and ammunition are located.

As previously anticipated, the turret has become unmanned, eliminating the fourth crew member – the loader.

Meanwhile, the question remains open regarding the placement of the vehicle commander, who was previously positioned to the right of the loader.

Combat Module

The turret has been equipped with a stabilized commander’s sighting system from Leonardo DRS, while the secondary armament is the R400 Mk2 RWS remotely operated weapon station produced by the Australian company EOS.

This module is fitted with an EchoGuard radar designed to detect and counter unmanned aerial vehicles, as well as a Javelin anti-tank guided missile launcher with a single-round ready ammunition load.

The integration of the Javelin raises several questions. First of all, who will reload the ATGM, and how this will be done, given that the turret is unmanned.

Second, where the missile launch tubes would be stored – if they are included in the ammunition load at all – remains unclear. Preliminary indications suggest that the crew has only a single shot available.

The issue of crew access to the vehicle also remains unresolved. It can be assumed that entry is possible through the turret.

It is also possible that the side armor elements in the upper frontal area serve as sliding hatches. This assumption is supported by the presence of elements that resemble handles.

As previously reported, the first incomplete images of the latest combat vehicle were shown back in early January.

Overall, the M1E3 visually differs significantly from the AbramsX technology demonstrator.