Photo from r/Tankporn…
Someone here asked, “What is that extra slanted armor on the M1A2’s turret face for?” According to this photo, it may be for mounting Laser Warning Receivers, and (I’m guessing) new smoke grenade launchers although they don’t look like smoke grenade launchers just by their angles.
The turret basket seems to have some sort of vertical loitering munitions launchers (four, I guess). However, the weight increase is so much that the low-profile CROWS II seems removed and a regular .50cal Browning mount was added although I’ve no idea why.
Google AI search says…
“At the AUSA 2025 exhibition, an
“interesting model” of the Abrams tank was displayed, potentially showcasing a proposed collection of upgrades that included a specific configuration for the Trophy Active Protection System (APS).
Key Details from AUSA 2025
Display Model: A scale model of an M1A2 Abrams MBT showing a possible, non-integrated implementation of the Trophy APS was on display by Leonardo DRS. This specific model was noted for having some interesting design features, which some observers felt represented a “proposed collection of upgrades” rather than a finalized, new configuration.
Focus on the Future: The primary focus for the U.S. Army’s next tank is the M1E3variant, which is planned to have a fully integrated Active Protection System as a key design feature, unlike the current interim solution where Trophy is simply installed as an add-on. The M1E3 is designed to be lighter and more efficient, addressing the weight concerns associated with current M1A2 SEPv3/v4 models which weigh around 78 tons.
Exhibition Themes: The overall theme of AUSA 2025 highlighted the convergence of autonomy, firepower, and mobility, with many new combat vehicles and autonomous systems on display. General Dynamics showcased several other technologies, such as the PERCH loitering munition system and the VITALS diagnostic software, but specific new developments regarding the M1A2 Trophy integration were limited to the model display.
In essence, while the M1A2 with Trophy was present at AUSA 2025, the exhibit highlighted the ongoing transition to the next-generation M1E3 tank, which will feature a more advanced, integrated APS solution.” –Google AI