M1A2 System Enhancement Program Version 3 Abrams Main Battle Tank

Australia is replacing its ageing fleet of 59 M1A1 Abrams with 75 of the latest generation M1A2 System Enhancement Program Version 3 (SEPv3) main battle tanks as part of the AU$3.5 billion LAND 907 Phase 2 project.

The Abrams SEPv3 variant retains the layout of the standard M1A2 tank while incorporating line-replaceable module technology to enable easy maintenance of the fleet alongside the integration of joint tactical radio system handheld, manpack, and small-form fit radio to ensure network readiness and interoperability.

Australia's Abrams will be equipped with a 120mm smoothbore cannon, along with a low-profile common remotely operated weapon system (Crows) installed with a 12.7mm machine gun. A 7.62mm M240 machine gun is also mounted coaxially with the main gun.

The SEPv3 variant also includes a host of advanced protective measures, including advanced composite armour and both active and passive defence systems to enhance the survivability of the tank when facing a range of threat environments.

A separate order for 29 M1150 Assault Breacher Vehicles (ABVs), 17 M1074 Joint Assault Bridges (JABs), six M88A2 Hercules Combat Recovery Vehicles, and 122 AGT1500 gas turbine engines, as part of LAND 8160 Phase 1, has also been confirmed.

Australia's first vehicles are expected to be delivered in 2024, with the projects expected to achieve initial operating capability in 2025.