Interesting intel drop about the ROC’s armored force updates
Taiwan’s MOD spec’d these colors. No info.
Shipment includes four Hercules ARVs.
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https://defence-blog.com/taiwan-nears-full-deployment-of-us-made-abrams-tanks/
Photo from Defence Blog
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PLA tankers are going to have a lot of fun with them, given that they are of the export version, without the “same defence capability” as the American ones, according to the text…Not that it will ever come to that of course
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None of us know the exact capability set of these MBTs. They are Zero Hour refurbished tanks, with some upgrades of sights and the export armor. Better still than the M1A1 that Sweden dropped on the world a few decades ago, and only faintly related. These started life as M1A2 SEPv2. But ICYMI-
Publicly known Upgrades and Capabilities:
- Survivability: The M1A2T features a reconfigured turret and unspecified modifications to improve its overall survivability, including improved frontal and side armor.
- Electrical System & Auxiliary Power Unit: A modified electrical system and auxiliary power unit are included.
- Ammunition Datalink: The M1A2T has a new ammunition datalink for firing programmable munitions.
- Battle Management System: The M1A2T includes a custom Taiwanese battle management system for improved coordination with other units on the battlefield.
- Forward-Looking Infrared (IFLIR): The tank is equipped with improved IFLIR for target detection and engagement.
- Common Remotely Operated Weapon Station (CROWS): The CROWS is upgraded with an upgraded day camera and other sensors.
- Armor Upgrades: The tank utilizes a new armor package for superior protection against threats, including IEDs and reactive armor.
If I compare their capabilities to the PLAs MBTs and their performance at the most recent Tank Biathalons, I’d opine that the well-trained crews of the ROC Army can defeat the Type 99A of the PLAN readily. The Type 99A does have mm radar, but it has yet to prove itself.
May the best crews win.
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After all, the 99A is a T-72 at heart.
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To model one, externally, they look like an M1A2 (non-SEP) with a different APU and added CROWS (is it a CROWS II like an M1A2 SEP v2?). They also seem to have the new A3 mud flaps, a backup camera on the right rear light, and the slave cable box and intercom phone box on the right rear of the hull. Am I missing anything else?
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It should be the CROWS LP.
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See the above list (Jane’s is a reasonably accurate and reliable source after all): “resembles the M1A2 SEPv3”
M1A2 SEPv2 with:
List of attached /embeeded modifications.
Remember that the newest pics wont show everthing mounted, and sundry other things.
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Rear view
H.P.
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Does the CROWS now look as if it is mounted on turret centerline? Interesting: See the base ring?
(In my best Spock voice): FASCINATING!
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The CROWS center placement is for transport only.
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I wondered, because I could see the mounting bracket on top of the Doghouse!
Thanks for clearing that up. My M1A1 didn’t have these contraptions!
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