The Green Abrams M1A2 Tanks: A Different Approach to Military Innovation
The Adaptation of Abrams M1A2 Tanks for Ukraine: Key Insights
The United States is rapidly preparing its Abrams M1A2 tanks for delivery to Ukraine, with a focus on aligning them with Ukrainian preferences. These modifications have been ongoing for years, and the tests are expected to reach Ukrainian shores in late summer or early fall. American manufacturers are working tirelessly to ensure Ukraine receives the promised armor by year-end.
In contrast, the deployment of German Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine takes time. The Ukrainian Armed Forces (AFU) already have 14 British Coale 2 tanks in service, with potential for additional support from the UK. However, these insights remain speculative without concrete evidence.
The presence of Abrams M1A2 tanks in Ukraine marks a significant development for the United States. Originally designed during the Cold War and first deployed in Iraq, these tanks will face off against Russian tanks manned by Russian crews for the first time. This encounter on the ground mirrors the intensity of an aerial dogfight between the MiG-29 and the F-16, garnering substantial attention and scrutiny.
Reports indicate that the tanks destined for Ukraine will be painted in green camouflage, a departure from their current desert camouflage. This suggests prior involvement in operations in Iraq.
Nevertheless, experts may be disappointed to learn that Ukraine will not receive tanks in the configuration intended for the U.S. military. Even if there were no conflict, the U.S. would withhold certain proprietary designs. Analysts have echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the U.S.’s reluctance to share sensitive military technology.
Colin Smith, an expert on the Russian military at the RAND Corp., highlights ongoing efforts to remove sensitive technology from the tanks in Ukrainian preparation shops. The U.S. aims to prevent the potential capture or disabling of Abrams tanks by Russian forces, further underscoring the importance of safeguarding sensitive military technology.
Abrams armor is highly classified, developed from depleted uranium (DU) and high-density materials, possibly including advanced ceramics. Access to this program is limited within the Pentagon, reflecting its secrecy.
While the M1A2 tanks boast improvements, including guidance systems, the fate of these systems in Ukrainian tanks remains uncertain due to their sensitive nature.
The U.S. faced challenges with the downing of the MQ-9 Reaper over the Black Sea, leading to concerns about the exposure of technology used in the drone. Russia’s ability to analyze frequencies, wiring, and communication between the drone and U.S. satellites raises security concerns.
Notably, when Ukraine received the HIMARS system last year, Russian jamming capabilities compromised its effectiveness. Russian forces even captured a GMLRS HIMARS rocket, enabling them to study and counter its technology.
In light of these concerns, Abrams tanks will not be delivered in their full configuration to Ukraine. This decision prioritizes security over image concerns, as there is recognition that no tank is invincible.
U.S. Army Colonel Martin O’Donnell emphasizes the need for careful training and suggests that the tanks destined for Ukraine will arrive in a modified state. Training Ukrainian crews will take time, with preliminary analysis suggesting at least ten weeks, significantly shorter than the standard American tank crew training, which lasts over a year and a half.
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