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A new prototype of the M1E3 Abrams main battle tank has made its public debut at the Detroit Auto Show in Michigan, USA.
The US Army display, manufactured by Roush Defence, was shown to media and public earlier this week as the next generation of armoured warfare for the US military and potentially other allied armies, such as the Australian Army.
The new main battle tank will reportedly focus on digital systems and interchangeability in capability to move with the rapid pace of evolving technology. The system will allegedly be powered by a commercial diesel engine, a crew of three and, potentially, use an autoloader for its 120mm smoothbore main gun.
It’s speculated that the M1E3 display also featured an R400 remote weapon station with a top-mounted Javelin anti-armour missile.
The tank is now public. Comments and observations to follow. pic.twitter.com/lSns8CP17b
— The Chieftain (@Chieftain_armor) January 14, 2026
Earlier this month, EOS Defense Systems USA announced it had secured a contract to deliver remote weapon systems to prime contractor General Dynamics Land Systems for integration onto a US Army ground combat vehicle.
“The initial award is for approximately US$22 million and is expected to result in a signed contract before the end of the year. Work will occur over the next two to three years, with future production efforts expected to extend past 2030,” EOS said.
“EOS will deliver an enhanced RWS, designed specifically to meet the Army’s operational requirements. Manufacturing will take place at EOS’ facility in Huntsville, Alabama, further establishing the company’s presence in the US defence market.”
US media organisations have reported that the US Army plans to build four early M1E3 prototypes and full production is planned with General Dynamics Land Systems.
The previously announced M1E3 Abrams Main Battle Tank modernisation program is envisioned to “fight and win against future threats on the battlefield of 2040 and beyond”.
“We appreciate that future battlefields pose new challenges to the tank as we study recent and ongoing conflicts,” according to comments made by Brigadier General Geoffrey Norman, director of the Next-Generation Combat Vehicle Cross Functional Team.
“We must optimise the Abrams’ mobility and survivability to allow the tank to continue to close with and destroy the enemy as the apex predator on future battlefields.”
The US Army will continue to produce the M1A2 SEPv3 at a reduced rate until production transitions to the M1E3 Abrams, and the Army will carry technologies forward into the SEPv4 Abrams modernisation effort.
“The Abrams Tank can no longer grow its capabilities without adding weight, and we need to reduce its logistical footprint,” said Major General Glenn Dean, program executive officer for Ground Combat Systems.
“The war in Ukraine has highlighted a critical need for integrated protections for soldiers, built from within instead of adding on.”
Initial operational capability for the M1E3 is anticipated in early the 2030s.
