The delivery order is part of a US Army Requirements Contract signed in December 2017, through which the Army can upgrade up to 435 M1A1 Abrams tanks to the M1A2 SEPv3 configuration. The M1A2 SEPv3 configuration features technological advancements in communications, reliability, sustainment and fuel efficiency, plus upgraded armour.

Kevin Connell, the recently-appointed vice president of General Dynamics Land Systems–Australia and has full responsibility for Australia and Asia-Pacific markets, said, "We’re delighted to showcase recent innovations in this proven Main Battle Tank at Land Forces 2018 and discuss how the Commonwealth of Australia can benefit from the US Army’s recent investment in this vital capability."

The M1 Abrams tank entered into service in the US in 1980, and continues to be a top tank choice for the US Army, National Guard and Marine Corps, as well as several US allies, including Australia, because it provides a proven and decisive edge in combat. Mobility, lethality, adaptability and maintainability are all important elements, and survivability continues to be the number one discriminator in the Abrams family of tanks.

"This latest generation Abrams continues to set the standard for protection, survivability and lethality, and has the ability to ensure that the Australian Army has decision superiority on the battlefields of today and in the future," Connell said. 

General Dynamics Land Systems is a global defence company delivering innovative wheeled and tracked platform solutions, systems integration services, upgrades, fleet management, through-life support, maintenance, repair and overhaul worldwide.

General Dynamics Land Systems–Australia maintains local technical capability and expertise with global reach-back. This capability enables a systems approach to all our projects to ensure that equipment capability and growth is fully considered through its life cycle, and brings multinational customer combat experience to bear on product solutions.

Stephen Kuper

Steve has an extensive career across government, defence industry and advocacy, having previously worked for cabinet ministers at both Federal and State levels.