M1A2 Abrams hull feature

Armor/AFV Modern
1

Got a question about a feature seen on some M1A2 Abrams hulls. It’s on the left side towards the rear. I assume it’s a feature on a particular batch of vehicles and I assume it’s a legacy item or blanking plate. Is it something to do with the under-armor APU that was initially fitted to some vehicles and then removed?

Thanks,
John

Hull feature001
Hull feature0011024×683 151 KB

2

Yes, that was where the opening for the intake on the UAAPU was. When they were removed and replaced w/the Harker Battery System, the openings were plated over.

3

Thanks Gino - thought that might be the case.