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December 30, 2024
Survivability: The M1A1 tanks of Ukraine's 47th Independent Mechanized Brigade survived after being attacked by Russian FPV suicide drones. This was mainly due to the tank's design and a series of improvements made by the Ukrainian military based on battlefield experience.
Blast Panels: The "blast panels" on the top of the Abrams tank's turret help to release explosive shockwaves upwards when the tank is hit, protecting the crew.
Explosive Reactive Armor (ERA): The M1A1 Abrams tanks of the Ukrainian army have been equipped with additional explosive reactive armor, enhancing their protection against drone attacks.
Cope Cage: The modified M1A1 tanks in Ukraine have "Cope Cage" installed on the turret, which is an anti-drone barrier device that helps protect the tank from drone attacks.
U.S. Army Protective Measures: While armies around the world have begun to install "Cope Cage" and other anti-drone barrier devices on armored vehicles, the U.S. Army has not yet taken similar measures.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the M1A1 Tank: The tank commander from Ukraine emphasized the survivability of the M1A1 tank when equipped with a large amount of additional armor and comprehensive protection, but also pointed out its significant weaknesses on the modern battlefield, especially in defense against FPV drones.
Recommendations for the U.S. Army: The commander suggested that the U.S. Army provide tanks with standard armor and a complete M-19 Abrams Tank Reactive Armor Kit to improve protection, and emphasized that U.S. tankers should act quickly to protect their tanks to avoid losses in potential future conflicts.
Improvements in the M1A2 SEPv3: The M1A2 SEPv3 version integrates upgraded armor, Israel's "Trophy" Active Protection System, and enhanced anti-drone measures to counter threats from drones and anti-tank missiles.
Conclusion: These lessons learned and improvement measures may be very valuable for the U.S. Army to enhance the survivability and combat effectiveness of the M1A1 Abrams tank in future armed conflicts.