General Dynamics is showing off their next-generation main battle tank. And, shockingly, it’s an actual piece of hardware rather than a computer generated bit of flim-flam. If this gets put into production, it will differ from the current Abrams by:
- an autoloader and a three-man crew rather than four
- a hybrid engine system, with supposedly 50% better fuel consumption
- a 30mm chain gun up top rather than a Ma Deuce
- “Trophy” active protection system
- reduced weight
I’m a bit stumped about the saw-tooth skirts on the side. Other than that, it looks sufficiently sci-fi. Note that the turret, which is now to be unmanned, is of somewhat lower profile, making the tank a slightly smaller target from the sides. However, as we’ve seen recently a whole lot of tanks get taken out from above. The “AbramsX” won’t be any smaller in that regard. Whether it’ll be any safer from a top attack remains to be seen, though Trophy has a good reputation.
One response to “AbramsX”
There looks to be several designs for autoloaders that leave the rounds in their current storage position at the back of the turret with an armored wall & door separating storage from the rest of turret. On the top are blow out panels that direct the blast up and out if the storage is hit.
I believe they are done live tests with a fully loaded turret being set off. The panels, plus halon automatic fire extinguishers keep the crew safe. Shaken up but safe.
One concept
https://youtu.be/_D71OAAP6jg
On the Japanese Type 90 MBT
https://youtu.be/ePHUcWsxZDg