Difference between revisions of "M1A2 Abrams"

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{{About
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{{Specs-Card|code=us_m1a2_abrams}}
−
| about = American main battle tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 
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| usage = other versions
 
−
| link = M1 Abrams (Family)
 
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}}
 
−
{{Specs-Card
 
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|code=us_m1a2_abrams
 
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|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
 
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}}
 
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
−
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
+
<!--In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.-->
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' (shortened to '''{{Specs|pseudonym}}''') is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.93 "Shark Attack"]] as the top researchable vehicle in the US Ground Forces tech tree. The M1A2 introduces heavy depleted uranium armour and a commander's thermal sight.
+
[[File:GarageImage_M1A2 Abrams.jpg|420px||thumb|left]]
 +
{{break}}
 +
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' (shortened to '''{{Specs|pseudonym}}''') is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.93 "Shark Attack"]] as the top researchable vehicle in the US Ground Forces tech tree. The M1A2 introduces heavy depleted uranium armour, a commander's thermal sight and the only driver's thermal imager in the game.  
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
−
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
+
<!--Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.-->
−
<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
 
  
−
[[File:M1A2 armour scheme.png|thumbnail|The M1A2's frontal KE protection vs 3BM42 at 500 metres]]
+
[[File:M1A2 armour scheme.png|thumbnail|The M1A2's frontal KE protection vs CL1343 at 500 metres]]
 
[[File:M1A2 CE armour scheme.png|thumbnail|The M1A2's frontal CE protection vs MIM-146]]
 
[[File:M1A2 CE armour scheme.png|thumbnail|The M1A2's frontal CE protection vs MIM-146]]
  
−
The M1A2's armour is a massive improvement in comparison to its predecessor, the [[M1A1 Abrams|M1A1]], and is the first Abrams in the game to be equipped with depleted uranium composite armour, located behind the turret cheeks of the tank. The protection afforded with the use of depleted uranium amounts to roughly over 300 mm RHAe more armour against kinetic energy projectiles whilst retaining the near-impenetrable chemical protection of the M1A1. The turret's overall kinetic energy protection ranges from around 780 mm to 680 mm, whilst the chemical energy protection ranges from 1,200 mm to 1,000 mm. However, the M1A2 has no depleted uranium located in the lower front plate, retaining the same weak spots as the M1A1's hull. The turret ring and breech also are weak spots, though the breech on the Abrams series is notably some of the strongest out of all NATO main battle tanks being small and well protected against chemical energy rounds and some early APFSDS rounds.
+
The M1A2's armour is a massive improvement in comparison to its predecessor, the [[M1A1 Abrams|M1A1,]] and is the first Abrams in the game to be equipped with depleted uranium composite armour, located behind the turret cheeks of the tank. The protection afforded with the use of depleted uranium amounts to roughly over 200 mm RHAe more armour against kinetic energy projectiles whilst retaining the near-impenetrable chemical protection of the M1A1. The turret's overall kinetic energy protection ranges from around 690 mm to 600 mm, whilst the chemical energy protection ranges from 1200 mm to 1000 mm. However, the M1A2 has no depleted uranium located in the lower front plate, retaining the same weak spots as the M1A1's hull. The turret ring and breech also are weak spots, though the breech on the Abrams series is notably some of the strongest out of all NATO main battle tanks being small and well protected against chemical energy rounds and some early APFSDS rounds.  
  
 
=== Mobility ===
 
=== Mobility ===
−
{{Specs-Tank-Mobility}}
 
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
  
−
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=2,058|rbMinHp=1,343}}
+
{{tankMobility|abMinHp= 2058|rbMinHp= 1343|<!--AoAweight=(optional) -->}}
  
−
The {{PAGENAME}} retains the same 1,519 horsepower AGT-1500 gas turbine on previous Abrams variants, though the tank has gained an additional 4 tons of weight, putting the total mass of the tank at 61.7 tonnes. This translates to a noticeable decrease in acceleration and manoeuvrability due to a lower hp/ton ratio. However, the tank retains the same 68 km/h top speed and 40 km/h reverse speed and relative to its counterparts the {{PAGENAME}} is still fairly mobile, especially at speeds over 40 km/h. When stock, the hull traverse is quite horrendous and acceleration is lacking, though these are largely remedied by researching the tracks, filters, engine and transmission modifications.
+
The {{PAGENAME}} retains the same 1,519 horsepower AGT-1500 gas turbine on previous Abrams variants, though the tank has gained an additional 4 tons of weight, putting the total mass of the tank at 61.7 tonnes. This translates to a noticeable decrease in acceleration and manoeuvrability due to a lower hp/ton ratio. However, the tank retains the same 68 km/h top speed and 40 km/h reverse speed and relative to its counterparts the {{PAGENAME}} is still fairly mobile, especially at speeds over 40 km/h. When stock, the hull traverse is quite horrendous and acceleration is lacking, though these are largely remedied by researching the engine, filters, transmission and tracks modules.
−
 
 
−
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
−
{{Specs-Economy}}
 
−
 
 
−
'''<big>Unlock order recommendations</big>'''
 
−
 
 
−
The order of modifications should be well thought out. Below is a guide of which modifications to unlock first, but it is just a recommendation and can be modified or adapted depending on the tank commander's preferences.
 
−
 
 
−
'''Tier 1'''
 
−
 
 
−
The first two modifications that should be unlocked are parts and the M829 APFSDS round, to allow repairing of the tank and increase firepower respectively. The order of the two unlocks is up to the vehicle commander but these two modifications are by far the most important when starting the stock grind. You only need one modification to move on to tier 2 but it is highly recommended to get both parts and M829 before moving on.
 
−
 
 
−
'''Tier 2'''
 
−
 
 
−
Moving on, you need two modifications from tier 2 in order to move to tier 3. Some good choices are FPE and smoke grenades; these two are the most important to success on the battlefield. FPE allows the putting out of fires and smoke grenades allows the deploying of a smoke screen, both of which are likely to save the tank on the field of battle. Now, adjustment of fire can be useful when engaging at longer ranges but in most cases it's not necessary at ranges up to even over one kilometre. After you unlock your two modifications in tier 2 it's recommended to move on to tier 3 to unlock more useful modifications.
 
−
 
 
−
'''Tier 3'''
 
−
 
 
−
In tier 3 there are several useful modifications but only two are required to move on to tier 4. Because there are multiple useful modifications in this tier a more broad recommendation should be given. The laser rangefinder - which allows great accuracy at long range, crew replenishment - which allows replacing a knocked out crew member, and filters - which increase mobility, although elevation mechanism can be useful as well it generally isn't quite as useful on the M1A2 because the gun already elevates quickly enough to use in battle. It's probably best to get crew replenishment and laser rangefinder but this one is up to the commander.
 
−
 
 
−
'''Tier 4'''
 
−
 
 
−
Moving on to tier 4 the prioritized modifications should be M829A2, NVD, and engine modifications to give much increased firepower, search and location ability, and mobility respectively. After that the most major modifications have been researched and now it's time to go back through the tiers and pick up the remaining mods.
 
−
 
 
−
'''Finishing up'''
 
−
 
 
−
After reaching tier 4 there are likely still useful modifications throughout the tiers that should be researched including tracks, filters, transmission, elevation mechanism, M830A1 and others. There are some modifications that aren't very useful though and should be saved for last, like suspension and brake system.
 
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
−
{{Specs-Tank-Armaments}}
 
 
=== Main armament ===
 
=== Main armament ===
−
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}
+
<!--Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.-->
−
<!-- ''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.'' -->
 
 
{{main|M256 (120 mm)}}
 
{{main|M256 (120 mm)}}
  
−
The M1A2 is armed with the 120 mm M256 smoothbore gun, the same cannon found on the M1A1 and the M1A1 HC, and has access to the same APFSDS and HEATFS ammunition. Its ammo selection is identical to the M1A1 HC, with the exception of the more powerful M829A2 APFSDS.
+
The M1A2 is armed with the same 120 mm M256 smoothbore gun as the M1A1 and has access to the same ammunition of APFSDS and HEAT-FS. However, the M1A2 also gets access to a new HEAT-MP-T shell, M830A1. The M829 APFSDS round is still an excellent anti-tank munition, boasting the third highest penetration figures out of any sabot round in the game, at 493 mm of flat penetration at point-blank and decreasing to just 458 mm at 2 kilometres. Its angled performance is also excellent, penetrating 284 mm of armour at 60 degrees point-blank and 264 mm at 2 kilometres. It is sufficient to reliably engage any vehicle in the game frontally. The M830 HEAT-FS shell penetrates a meagre 480 mm of armour. It is not recommended to use this shell after unlocking the M829. The M1A2's new shell, M830A1 is a special type of HEAT-FS round. Instead of using a conventional impact fuse, M830A1 is a sub-calibre HEAT-FS round that has been saboted into a 120 mm casing and fitted with a proximity fuse. This allows it to effectively engage low flying aircraft and helicopters up to a range of 4.5 kilometres. The sub-calibre nature of the round means it travels extremely quickly at 1,400 m/s, making it the fastest HEAT round in the game. However, its effectiveness against armoured vehicles is limited as it penetrates a mere 350 mm of armour.  
  
−
The M1A2's gun handles very well, with a very efficient stabilizer that allows accurate fire at any speed and a very fast turret traverse. The gun has good depression and elevation angles; negative 10 and positive 20 degrees respectively. An aced crew can reload the gun in just six seconds, which is comparable its contemporaries although slower than the Challenger 2s, Type 90s, and Type 10.
+
The M1A2's gun handles very well, with a very efficient stabiliser that allows accurate fire at any speed and a very fast 40 degrees per second turret traverse. The gun has good depression and elevation angles; negative 10 and positive 20 degrees respectively. An aced crew can reload the gun in just six seconds, which is comparable to the Leopard 2A5, Leclerc and T-80U, although slower than the Type 90 and Challenger 2.  
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
+
{| class="wikitable"
 +
! colspan="6" |[[M256 (120 mm)|120 mm M256]]
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="3" rowspan="1" |Capacity
 +
! rowspan="1" |Vertical
 +
guidance
 +
! rowspan="1" |Horizontal
 +
guidance
 +
! rowspan="1" |Stabilizer
 +
|-
 +
| colspan="3" |42
 +
| -10°/+20°
 +
|±180°
 +
|Two-plane
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="6" |Turret rotation speed (°/s)
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="5" | [[M256 (120 mm)|120 mm M256]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
+
!Mode
 +
!Stock
 +
!Upgraded
 +
!Prior + Full crew
 +
!Prior + Expert qualif.
 +
!Prior + Ace qualif.
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
+
|''Arcade''
−
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
+
|38.08
−
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
+
|52.71
 +
|64.00
 +
|70.8
 +
|75.29
 
|-
 
|-
−
! ''Arcade''
+
|''Realistic''
−
| rowspan="2" | 42 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 38.1 || 52.7 || 64.0 || 70.8 || 75.3 || rowspan="2" | 6.50 || rowspan="2" | 5.75 || rowspan="2" | 5.30 || rowspan="2" | 5.00
+
|23.8
 +
|28.0
 +
|34.0
 +
|37.6
 +
|40.0
 
|-
 
|-
−
! ''Realistic''
+
! colspan="4" |Reloading rate (seconds)
−
| 23.8 || 28.0 || 34.0 || 37.6 || 40.0
 
 
|-
 
|-
 +
! colspan="1" |Stock
 +
! colspan="1" |Prior + Full crew
 +
! colspan="1" |Prior + Expert qualif.
 +
! colspan="1" |Prior + Ace qualif.
 +
|-
 +
|7.80
 +
|6.9
 +
|6.36
 +
|6.0
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
==== Ammunition ====
+
=====Ammunition=====
−
{{:M256 (120 mm)/Ammunition|M830, M830A1, M829, M829A2, M908}}
+
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 +
! colspan="8" |Penetration statistics
 +
|-
 +
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" |Ammunition
 +
! rowspan="2" class="unsortable" |Type of
 +
warhead
 +
! colspan="6" |'''Penetration''' ''in mm'' '''@ 0° Angle of Attack'''
 +
|-
 +
!10m
 +
!100m
 +
!500m
 +
!1000m
 +
!1500m
 +
!2000m
 +
|-
 +
|M830||HEAT-FS||480||480||480||480||480||480
 +
|-
 +
|M829||APFSDS||493||492||484||476||467||458
 +
|-
 +
|M830A1
 +
|HEAT-MP
 +
|350
 +
|350
 +
|350
 +
|350
 +
|350
 +
|350
 +
|}
 +
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 +
! colspan="11" |Shell details
 +
|-
 +
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" |Ammunition
 +
! rowspan="2" class="unsortable" |Type of
 +
warhead
 +
! rowspan="2" |Velocity
 +
in m/s
 +
! rowspan="2" |Projectile
 +
Mass in kg
 +
! rowspan="2" |''Fuse delay''
 +
''in m:''
 +
! rowspan="2" |''Fuse sensitivity''
 +
''in mm:''
 +
! rowspan="2" |''Explosive Mass in g'' ''(TNT equivalent):''
 +
! rowspan="2" |''Normalization At 30°''
 +
''from horizontal:''
 +
! colspan="3" |''Ricochet:''
 +
|-
 +
!0%
 +
!50%
 +
!100%
 +
|-
 +
|M830||HEAT-FS||1,140||13.5||0.0||0.1||1,640||+0°||65°||72°||75°
 +
|-
 +
|M829||APFSDS||1,679||4.3||N/A||N/A||N/A||+1.5°||78°||80°||81°
 +
|-
 +
|M830A1
 +
|HEAT-MP
 +
|1,400
 +
|11.4
 +
|400
 +
|0.1
 +
|1.39
 +
|
 +
|65°
 +
|72°
 +
|75°
 +
|}
 +
=====[[Ammo racks]]=====
 +
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! class="wikitable unsortable" |Full
 +
ammo
 +
! class="wikitable unsortable" |1st
 +
rack empty
 +
! class="wikitable unsortable" |2nd
 +
rack empty
 +
! class="wikitable unsortable" |Visual
 +
discrepancy
 +
|-
 +
||'''42'''||18||24|| style="text-align:left" |Yes
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
=== Machine guns ===
 +
{{main|M2HB (12.7 mm)|M240 (7.62 mm)}}<!--''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft, but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.''-->
  
−
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
−
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
 
−
<!-- '''Last updated:''' -->
 
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Full<br>ammo
+
! colspan="7" |[[M2HB (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm M2HB]]
−
! 1st<br>rack empty
 
−
! 2nd<br>rack empty
 
−
! 3rd<br>rack empty
 
−
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| '''42''' || 37&nbsp;''(+5)'' || 19&nbsp;''(+23)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+41)'' || No
+
! colspan="7" |''Pintle mount (Commander)''
 
|-
 
|-
 +
! colspan="4" rowspan="1" style="width:5em" |Capacity (Belt capacity)
 +
! rowspan="1" |Fire rate
 +
(shots/minute)
 +
! rowspan="1" |Vertical
 +
guidance
 +
! rowspan="1" |Horizontal
 +
guidance
 +
|-
 +
| colspan="4" |1,000 (200)||577||-9°/+65°||±180°
 
|}
 
|}
−
 
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
−
=== Machine guns ===
+
|-
−
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
+
! colspan="7" |[[M240 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm M240]]
−
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|3}}
+
|-
−
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|4}}
+
! colspan="7" |''Coaxial mount''
−
<!-- ''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.'' -->
+
|-
−
{{main|M2HB (12.7 mm)|M240 (7.62 mm)}}
+
! colspan="4" rowspan="1" style="width:5em" |Capacity (Belt capacity)
−
 
+
! rowspan="1" |Fire rate
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
+
(shots/minute)
 +
! rowspan="1" |Vertical
 +
guidance
 +
! rowspan="1" |Horizontal
 +
guidance
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="5" | [[M2HB (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm M2HB]]
+
| colspan="4" |10,000 (200)||750||-10°/+20°||±180°
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
+
! colspan="7" |''Pintle mount (Loader)''
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Pintle (Commander) || 1,000 (200) || 577 || -9°/+65° || -160°/+180°
+
! colspan="4" rowspan="1" style="width:5em" |Capacity (Belt capacity)
 +
! rowspan="1" |Fire rate
 +
(shots/minute)
 +
! rowspan="1" |Vertical
 +
guidance
 +
! rowspan="1" |Horizontal
 +
guidance
 
|-
 
|-
 +
| colspan="4" |1,400 (200)||750||-9°/+65°||-77°/+135°
 
|}
 
|}
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
+
===Optics and night vision===
 +
The M1A2 is equipped with a thermal imager for the commander, gunner and driver. It has good resolution and provides excellent situational awareness for the vehicle.
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 +
! colspan="7" |{{PAGENAME}} [[Optics]]
 +
|-
 +
! rowspan="3" |Type of optic
 +
! rowspan="3" |Magnification
 +
! colspan="5" |[[Night Vision Devices]]
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="5" | [[M240 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm M240]]
+
! colspan="3" |Image Intensifier
 +
! rowspan="2" |Thermal Imager
 +
Resolution
 +
! rowspan="2" |Notes
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
+
!Resolution
 +
!Light Mult
 +
!Noise Level
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Coaxial || 10,000 (200) || 941 || N/A || N/A
+
!Gunner's Sight
 +
|X3.0 - X10.0
 +
|Not fitted
 +
|N/A
 +
|N/A
 +
|800 x 600
 +
|
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Pintle (Loader) || 1,400 (200) || 941 || -9°/+65° || -180°/+20°
+
!Commander's View
 +
|X6
 +
|Not fitted
 +
|N/A
 +
|N/A
 +
|800 x 600
 +
|
 
|-
 
|-
 +
!Driver's View
 +
|X1
 +
|Not fitted
 +
|N/A
 +
|N/A
 +
|800 x 600
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
−
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
+
<!--Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).-->
 
The M1A2 Abrams excels as an all-around jack of all trades vehicle capable of any role presented to it. It has a great combination of protection, firepower, situational awareness and mobility to allow it to adapt to any task it may face, from close-quarters fighting in urban areas to long-range engagements on large open maps.
 
The M1A2 Abrams excels as an all-around jack of all trades vehicle capable of any role presented to it. It has a great combination of protection, firepower, situational awareness and mobility to allow it to adapt to any task it may face, from close-quarters fighting in urban areas to long-range engagements on large open maps.
  
 
;Urban combat
 
;Urban combat
  
−
The M1A2, with its good mobility and improved protection over the M1A1 can function as an effective brawler in close-quarters urban fighting. The M1A2's reload rate is on par when aced to its counterparts, with the exception of the [[Challenger 2 (Family)|Challenger 2s]] and [[Type 90 (Family)|Type 90s]], and [[Type 10]], making it able to quickly dish out damage and deal with multiple foes. Thusly, the M1A2 has no issue leading the charge into urban areas and being a frontline vehicle in the thick of the action, being able to equally deal damage and take it.
+
The M1A2, with its good mobility and improved protection over the M1A1 can function as an effective brawler in close-quarters urban fighting. The M1A2's reload rate is on par when aced to its counterparts, with the exception of the Challenger 2 and Type 90, making it able to quickly dish out damage and deal with multiple foes. Thusly, the M1A2 has no issue leading the charge into urban areas and being a frontline vehicle in the thick of the action, being able to equally deal damage and take it.  
  
 
;Rural combat
 
;Rural combat
  
−
On large open maps, the M1A2 is fully able to exploit its improved turret protection and commander's thermal imaging to give it the upper hand in long-range battles. The mobility of the M1A2 allows it to reach advantageous positions that overlook key areas of the map but its 1st gen. thermal device doesn't allow a fast identification of targets at range and in dense woodland. The commander's thermal imager means the player can keep track of threats all around the vehicle and monitor the battlefield without exposing the turret at all. The M1A2 is best played as an ambush sniper, using its commander's thermal sight to survey from cover, exposing the tank only to engage a target. The turret armour also means the M1A2 should be kept in a hull-down position, making the tank extremely hard to destroy. The M1A2 also retains the ability to effectively take the enemy head-on when the situation calls for it, such as assaulting capture points. The M830A1 shell is also valuable, allowing the M1A2 to become an ad-hoc anti-aircraft vehicle, especially against unwary helicopters that get too close to you or your allies.
+
On large open maps, the M1A2 is fully able to exploit its improved turret protection and commander's thermal imaging to give it the upper hand in long-range battles. The mobility of the M1A2 allows it to reach advantageous positions that overlook key areas of the map and its improved thermal quality allows easier identification of targets at range and in dense woodland. The commander's thermal imager means the player can keep track of threats all around the vehicle and monitor the battlefield without exposing the turret at all. The M1A2 is best played as an ambush sniper, using its commander's thermal sight to survey from cover, exposing the tank only to engage a target. The turret armour also means the M1A2 should be kept in a hull-down position, making the tank extremely hard to destroy. The M1A2 also retains the ability to effectively take the enemy head-on when the situation calls for it, such as assaulting capture points. The M830A1 shell is also valuable, allowing the M1A2 to become an ad-hoc anti-aircraft vehicle, especially against unwary helicopters that get too close to you or your allies.  
  
 
;Notable enemies
 
;Notable enemies
  
−
* [[Leopard 2A5]]/[[Leopard 2A6|2A6]]: These are the main counterparts of the M1A2. Though the M1A2 outperforms the Leopard 2A5 in firepower, the Leopard 2A6 has superior firepower. The DM53 APFSDS the Leopard 2A6 is equipped with is capable of penetrating the turret cheek of the M1A2 at closer ranges. Thus, the Leopard 2s should be a high-priority target to be dealt with carefully. When hull down, the Leopard 2s can only be effectively penetrated through the gun mantlet or a lucky shot into the turret ring, so aim for the gun area, as this usually results in at least the disablement of the cannon or breech. If the Leopard 2 presents its hull, aim for the left side as the lined-up crew members usually result in all of them being knocked out at the same time, resulting in a one shot if done correctly.
+
* [[Leopard 2A5]]: This is the main counterpart of the M1A2 and both tanks are evenly matched in nearly all aspects. Thusly the Leopard 2A5 should be a high-priority target to be dealt with carefully. When hull down, the Leopard 2A5 can only be effectively penetrated through the gun mantlet or a lucky shot into the turret ring, so aim for the gun area, which usually results in at least the disablement of the cannon or breech. If the Leopard 2A5 presents its hull, aim for the left side as the lined-up crew members usually result in all of them being knocked out at the same time.
  
−
* [[T-80U]]: The T-80U can be a fearsome enemy if you are unaware of its significant disadvantages and weaknesses. The tank's frontal protection is very strong, though the area around the gun and the driver's hatch are weak spots that should be targeted. The T-80U, like many other T-series vehicles, are prone to being destroyed by a single shot due to the tightly-packed interior that has the turret crew sitting on top of all the ammunition. Furthermore, the T-80U is very vulnerable to any form of angling in the hull as its side protection is very weak in comparison to the frontal armour. A single penetration at all but the most oblique angles usually results in the detonation of the hull-ammo carousel to easily destroy the T-80U.
+
* [[T-80U]]: The T-80U can be a fearsome enemy if you are unaware of its significant disadvantages and weaknesses. The tank's frontal protection is very strong, though the area around the gun and the driver's hatch are weak spots that should be targeted. The T-80U, like many other T-series vehicles, are prone to being destroyed in one-shot due to the tightly-packed interior that has the turret crew sitting on top of all the ammunition. Furthermore, the T-80U is very vulnerable to any form of angling in the hull as its side protection is very weak in comparison to the frontal armour. A single penetration at all but the most oblique angles usually results in the detonation of the hull-ammo carousel to easily destroy the T-80U.  
  
−
* [[Leclerc]]: The Leclerc's good mobility, firepower and protection make it a formidable foe to engage. However the tank's armour scheme is inconsistent and presents three main weak spots frontally; the massive and extremely weak mantlet, the UFP and LFP. These are quite easy to hit and present a good chance of dealing serious damage or knocking out the vehicle entirely.
+
* [[Leclerc]]: The Leclerc's good mobility, firepower and protection make it a formidable foe to engage. However the tank's armour scheme is inconsistent and presents three main weak spots frontally; the massive and extremely weak mantlet, the UFP and LFP. These are quite easy to hit and present a good chance of dealing serious damage or knocking out the vehicle entirely.  
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
−
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
+
<!--Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".-->
  
−
'''Pros:'''
+
'''Pros:'''  
  
−
* New depleted uranium composite armour layout makes the frontal turret extremely difficult to penetrate to all munitions in the game, other than the Leopard 2A6's DM53, at short range
+
* New depleted uranium composite armour layout makes the frontal turret extremely difficult to penetrate to all munitions in the game, other than Ariete's CL1343, at short range
 
* Can effectively destroy aircraft or helicopters with new HEATFS shell through proximity detonation
 
* Can effectively destroy aircraft or helicopters with new HEATFS shell through proximity detonation
−
* Thermal sight for both the commander and gunner
+
* Thermal sight for the commander, gunner and driver
 +
* Excellent thermal quality (800 x 600), comparable to the [[Leopard 2A5]]
 
* Good crew survivability like the rest of the Abrams line
 
* Good crew survivability like the rest of the Abrams line
−
* M829 APFSDS modification unlocked at tier I
 
−
* Powerful M829A2 APFSDS shell with excellent ballistics and penetration properties
 
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
 
* Very easy to penetrate, even by low rank 5 tanks, hits on the UFP can auto bounce into the turret, often incapacitating the gunner and commander, as well as detonating the ammo
 
* Very easy to penetrate, even by low rank 5 tanks, hits on the UFP can auto bounce into the turret, often incapacitating the gunner and commander, as well as detonating the ammo
−
* The turret ring is a massive weak spot, any tank in the game can penetrate it, a hit to the highly angled upper front plate will likely cause the incoming shell to ricochet into the turret ring, destroying critical components and knocking out crew members
+
* The turret ring is a massive weak spot, any tank in the game can penetrate it
−
* The LFP is huge and has very poor protection
+
* The lower LFP is huge and has very poor protection
−
* Has the same weak spots as its preceding variants
+
* Has the same weak spots as the preceding Abrams
−
* The gun mantlet weak spot on the turret, though this is common with all MBTs.
+
* The mantlet can be penetrated by almost all shells, will only stop weaker versions of HEATFS
−
* The Leopard 2A6's DM53 has a good chance of penetrating the turret cheeks if they're hit at a right angle
+
* The Italian CL1343 APFSDS found on the Ariete line of tanks can penetrate some areas of the gunner's side turret cheek at close range
−
* The mobility is hampered by its weight of 61.7 tonnes
+
* Least manoeuvrable Abrams in the game, due to its weight of 61.7 tonnes
−
* The stock HEATFS shell is very difficult to use at top tier due to every tank you face having more than 600mm of chemical protection or being coated in ERA frontally. Flank shots are the only reliable way to get kills
+
* its stock HEATFS shell is borderline useless at top tier due to every tank you face having more than 600mm of chemical protection or being coated in ERA
−
* Like with most Abrams series tanks, the engine deck is slightly raised, meaning that you will not be able to depress the gun over the rear of the tank.
+
* APFSDS is a tier III unlock
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
−
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
+
<!--Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the ground vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/ History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).-->
−
[[File:U.S. Army M1A2 Abrams Iraq 2005.jpg|x240px|right|none|thumb|Two US Army M1A2s in Iraq.]]
 
  
 
In the second half of the 1980s, a development project was launched to increase the combat effectiveness of the Abrams MBT. The result of this undertaking became the M1A2 version of the Abrams.
 
In the second half of the 1980s, a development project was launched to increase the combat effectiveness of the Abrams MBT. The result of this undertaking became the M1A2 version of the Abrams.
  
−
The new version featured an upgraded fire control system, a new independent commander's panoramic sight as well as improved protection thanks to the use of second generation depleted uranium composite armour. All of these upgrades combined significantly bolstered the combat capabilities of the Abrams tank. Production of the M1A2 began in 1986 and the modification was formally introduced into US service in 1992.
+
The new version featured an upgraded fire control system, a new independent commander’s panoramic sight as well as improved protection thanks to the use of second generation depleted uranium composite armor. All of these upgrades combined significantly bolstered the combat capabilities of the Abrams tank. Production of the M1A2 began in 1986 and the modification was formally introduced into US service in 1992.
  
 
The M1A2 and its sub-variants are the most advanced modifications of the Abrams tank fielded to date. Over 1,500 M1A2s have been built with some older variants also being upgraded to the M1A2 standard. Apart from the U.S. as its primary operator, the M1A2 also sees service with the armed forces of Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.
 
The M1A2 and its sub-variants are the most advanced modifications of the Abrams tank fielded to date. Over 1,500 M1A2s have been built with some older variants also being upgraded to the M1A2 standard. Apart from the U.S. as its primary operator, the M1A2 also sees service with the armed forces of Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.
Line 188: Line 310:
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
−
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
+
<!--Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.-->
−
 
 
−
;Skins
 
−
 
 
−
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=us_m1a2_abrams Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 
  
 
;Images
 
;Images
−
<gallery mode="packed-hover" heights="200">
+
<div><ul>
−
File:M1A2 Cobra King II Hangar.png|<small>Cobra King II, prepped for combat.</small>
+
<li style="display: inline-block;">[[File:M1A2 Cobra King II Hangar.png|thumb|300px|M1A2, Cobra King II, prepped for combat.]]</li>
−
File:M1A2 on Kursk.png|<small>Angel of Death, scanning the horizon on Kursk.</small>
+
<li style="display: inline-block;">[[File:M1A2 on Kursk.png|thumb|300px|M1A2, Angel of Death, scanning the horizon on Kursk.]]</li>
−
File:M1A2 Allied Spirit VIII camouflage.jpg|<small>Unlockable Allied Spirit VIII skin representing US Army units in Europe, 2018.</small>
+
<li style="display: inline-block;">[[File:M1A2 Allied Spirit VIII camouflage.jpg|thumb|300px|M1A2 sporting the unlockable Allied Spirit VIII skin.This skin represents US Army units in Europe, 2018.]]</li>
−
File:ArtImage2 M1A2 Abrams.png|<small>M1A2 Abrams in the desert.</small>
+
</ul></div>
−
</gallery>
 
  
−
;Videos
+
== See also ==
−
{{Youtube-gallery|k-TAP29inb8|'''Should You Grind The M1A2 Abrams?''' - ''Sako Sniper''}}
+
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
  
−
== See also ==
 
−
<!-- ''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 
 
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
−
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
+
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
−
 
 
−
* [[M1A2 SEP]]
 
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
−
<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
+
<!--Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
−
* ''other literature.'' -->
+
* ''encyclopedia page on the tank;''
 +
* ''other literature.''-->
  
−
* [[wt:en/news/6451-development-m1a2-abrams-higher-and-higher-en|[Development] M1A2 Abrams - Higher and Higher]]
+
* [[wt:en/news/6451-development-m1a2-abrams-higher-and-higher-en|[Development<nowiki>]</nowiki> M1A2 Abrams - Higher and Higher]]
  
−
{{TankManufacturer GDLS}}
 
 
{{USA medium tanks}}
 
{{USA medium tanks}}

Revision as of 19:46, 18 April 2020

Rank VI USA | Premium | Golden Eagles
A-10A Thunderbolt (Early)
M1A2 Abrams
us_m1a2_abrams.png
M1A2 Abrams
USA flag.png USA
VIII Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
11.7 11.7 11.7
Class:
Research:400 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:1 080 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

GarageImage M1A2 Abrams.jpg


The Tank, Combat, Full Tracked, 120-mm Gun M1A2 (shortened to M1A2 Abrams) is a rank VIII American medium tank with a battle rating of 11.7 (AB/RB/SB). It was introduced in Update 1.93 "Shark Attack" as the top researchable vehicle in the US Ground Forces tech tree. The M1A2 introduces heavy depleted uranium armour, a commander's thermal sight and the only driver's thermal imager in the game.

General info

Survivability and armour

The M1A2's frontal KE protection vs CL1343 at 500 metres
The M1A2's frontal CE protection vs MIM-146

The M1A2's armour is a massive improvement in comparison to its predecessor, the M1A1, and is the first Abrams in the game to be equipped with depleted uranium composite armour, located behind the turret cheeks of the tank. The protection afforded with the use of depleted uranium amounts to roughly over 200 mm RHAe more armour against kinetic energy projectiles whilst retaining the near-impenetrable chemical protection of the M1A1. The turret's overall kinetic energy protection ranges from around 690 mm to 600 mm, whilst the chemical energy protection ranges from 1200 mm to 1000 mm. However, the M1A2 has no depleted uranium located in the lower front plate, retaining the same weak spots as the M1A1's hull. The turret ring and breech also are weak spots, though the breech on the Abrams series is notably some of the strongest out of all NATO main battle tanks being small and well protected against chemical energy rounds and some early APFSDS rounds.

Mobility

Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 76 43 62.1 2058 2,898 33.14 46.67
Realistic 69 39 1343 1,519 21.63 24.46

The M1A2 Abrams retains the same 1,519 horsepower AGT-1500 gas turbine on previous Abrams variants, though the tank has gained an additional 4 tons of weight, putting the total mass of the tank at 61.7 tonnes. This translates to a noticeable decrease in acceleration and manoeuvrability due to a lower hp/ton ratio. However, the tank retains the same 68 km/h top speed and 40 km/h reverse speed and relative to its counterparts the M1A2 Abrams is still fairly mobile, especially at speeds over 40 km/h. When stock, the hull traverse is quite horrendous and acceleration is lacking, though these are largely remedied by researching the engine, filters, transmission and tracks modules.

Armaments

Main armament

Main article: M256 (120 mm)

The M1A2 is armed with the same 120 mm M256 smoothbore gun as the M1A1 and has access to the same ammunition of APFSDS and HEAT-FS. However, the M1A2 also gets access to a new HEAT-MP-T shell, M830A1. The M829 APFSDS round is still an excellent anti-tank munition, boasting the third highest penetration figures out of any sabot round in the game, at 493 mm of flat penetration at point-blank and decreasing to just 458 mm at 2 kilometres. Its angled performance is also excellent, penetrating 284 mm of armour at 60 degrees point-blank and 264 mm at 2 kilometres. It is sufficient to reliably engage any vehicle in the game frontally. The M830 HEAT-FS shell penetrates a meagre 480 mm of armour. It is not recommended to use this shell after unlocking the M829. The M1A2's new shell, M830A1 is a special type of HEAT-FS round. Instead of using a conventional impact fuse, M830A1 is a sub-calibre HEAT-FS round that has been saboted into a 120 mm casing and fitted with a proximity fuse. This allows it to effectively engage low flying aircraft and helicopters up to a range of 4.5 kilometres. The sub-calibre nature of the round means it travels extremely quickly at 1,400 m/s, making it the fastest HEAT round in the game. However, its effectiveness against armoured vehicles is limited as it penetrates a mere 350 mm of armour.

The M1A2's gun handles very well, with a very efficient stabiliser that allows accurate fire at any speed and a very fast 40 degrees per second turret traverse. The gun has good depression and elevation angles; negative 10 and positive 20 degrees respectively. An aced crew can reload the gun in just six seconds, which is comparable to the Leopard 2A5, Leclerc and T-80U, although slower than the Type 90 and Challenger 2.

120 mm M256
Capacity Vertical

guidance

Horizontal

guidance

Stabilizer
42 -10°/+20° ±180° Two-plane
Turret rotation speed (°/s)
Mode Stock Upgraded Prior + Full crew Prior + Expert qualif. Prior + Ace qualif.
Arcade 38.08 52.71 64.00 70.8 75.29
Realistic 23.8 28.0 34.0 37.6 40.0
Reloading rate (seconds)
Stock Prior + Full crew Prior + Expert qualif. Prior + Ace qualif.
7.80 6.9 6.36 6.0
Ammunition
Penetration statistics
Ammunition Type of

warhead

Penetration in mm @ 0° Angle of Attack
10m 100m 500m 1000m 1500m 2000m
M830 HEAT-FS 480 480 480 480 480 480
M829 APFSDS 493 492 484 476 467 458
M830A1 HEAT-MP 350 350 350 350 350 350
Shell details
Ammunition Type of

warhead

Velocity

in m/s

Projectile

Mass in kg

Fuse delay

in m:

Fuse sensitivity

in mm:

Explosive Mass in g (TNT equivalent): Normalization At 30°

from horizontal:

Ricochet:
0% 50% 100%
M830 HEAT-FS 1,140 13.5 0.0 0.1 1,640 +0° 65° 72° 75°
M829 APFSDS 1,679 4.3 N/A N/A N/A +1.5° 78° 80° 81°
M830A1 HEAT-MP 1,400 11.4 400 0.1 1.39 65° 72° 75°
Ammo racks
Full

ammo

1st

rack empty

2nd

rack empty

Visual

discrepancy

42 18 24 Yes

Machine guns

Main articles: M2HB (12.7 mm), M240 (7.62 mm)
12.7 mm M2HB
Pintle mount (Commander)
Capacity (Belt capacity) Fire rate

(shots/minute)

Vertical

guidance

Horizontal

guidance

1,000 (200) 577 -9°/+65° ±180°
7.62 mm M240
Coaxial mount
Capacity (Belt capacity) Fire rate

(shots/minute)

Vertical

guidance

Horizontal

guidance

10,000 (200) 750 -10°/+20° ±180°
Pintle mount (Loader)
Capacity (Belt capacity) Fire rate

(shots/minute)

Vertical

guidance

Horizontal

guidance

1,400 (200) 750 -9°/+65° -77°/+135°

Optics and night vision

The M1A2 is equipped with a thermal imager for the commander, gunner and driver. It has good resolution and provides excellent situational awareness for the vehicle.

M1A2 Abrams Optics
Type of optic Magnification Night Vision Devices
Image Intensifier Thermal Imager

Resolution

Notes
Resolution Light Mult Noise Level
Gunner's Sight X3.0 - X10.0 Not fitted N/A N/A 800 x 600
Commander's View X6 Not fitted N/A N/A 800 x 600
Driver's View X1 Not fitted N/A N/A 800 x 600

Usage in battles

The M1A2 Abrams excels as an all-around jack of all trades vehicle capable of any role presented to it. It has a great combination of protection, firepower, situational awareness and mobility to allow it to adapt to any task it may face, from close-quarters fighting in urban areas to long-range engagements on large open maps.

Urban combat

The M1A2, with its good mobility and improved protection over the M1A1 can function as an effective brawler in close-quarters urban fighting. The M1A2's reload rate is on par when aced to its counterparts, with the exception of the Challenger 2 and Type 90, making it able to quickly dish out damage and deal with multiple foes. Thusly, the M1A2 has no issue leading the charge into urban areas and being a frontline vehicle in the thick of the action, being able to equally deal damage and take it.

Rural combat

On large open maps, the M1A2 is fully able to exploit its improved turret protection and commander's thermal imaging to give it the upper hand in long-range battles. The mobility of the M1A2 allows it to reach advantageous positions that overlook key areas of the map and its improved thermal quality allows easier identification of targets at range and in dense woodland. The commander's thermal imager means the player can keep track of threats all around the vehicle and monitor the battlefield without exposing the turret at all. The M1A2 is best played as an ambush sniper, using its commander's thermal sight to survey from cover, exposing the tank only to engage a target. The turret armour also means the M1A2 should be kept in a hull-down position, making the tank extremely hard to destroy. The M1A2 also retains the ability to effectively take the enemy head-on when the situation calls for it, such as assaulting capture points. The M830A1 shell is also valuable, allowing the M1A2 to become an ad-hoc anti-aircraft vehicle, especially against unwary helicopters that get too close to you or your allies.

Notable enemies
  • Leopard 2A5: This is the main counterpart of the M1A2 and both tanks are evenly matched in nearly all aspects. Thusly the Leopard 2A5 should be a high-priority target to be dealt with carefully. When hull down, the Leopard 2A5 can only be effectively penetrated through the gun mantlet or a lucky shot into the turret ring, so aim for the gun area, which usually results in at least the disablement of the cannon or breech. If the Leopard 2A5 presents its hull, aim for the left side as the lined-up crew members usually result in all of them being knocked out at the same time.
  • T-80U: The T-80U can be a fearsome enemy if you are unaware of its significant disadvantages and weaknesses. The tank's frontal protection is very strong, though the area around the gun and the driver's hatch are weak spots that should be targeted. The T-80U, like many other T-series vehicles, are prone to being destroyed in one-shot due to the tightly-packed interior that has the turret crew sitting on top of all the ammunition. Furthermore, the T-80U is very vulnerable to any form of angling in the hull as its side protection is very weak in comparison to the frontal armour. A single penetration at all but the most oblique angles usually results in the detonation of the hull-ammo carousel to easily destroy the T-80U.
  • Leclerc: The Leclerc's good mobility, firepower and protection make it a formidable foe to engage. However the tank's armour scheme is inconsistent and presents three main weak spots frontally; the massive and extremely weak mantlet, the UFP and LFP. These are quite easy to hit and present a good chance of dealing serious damage or knocking out the vehicle entirely.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • New depleted uranium composite armour layout makes the frontal turret extremely difficult to penetrate to all munitions in the game, other than Ariete's CL1343, at short range
  • Can effectively destroy aircraft or helicopters with new HEATFS shell through proximity detonation
  • Thermal sight for the commander, gunner and driver
  • Excellent thermal quality (800 x 600), comparable to the Leopard 2A5
  • Good crew survivability like the rest of the Abrams line

Cons:

  • Very easy to penetrate, even by low rank 5 tanks, hits on the UFP can auto bounce into the turret, often incapacitating the gunner and commander, as well as detonating the ammo
  • The turret ring is a massive weak spot, any tank in the game can penetrate it
  • The lower LFP is huge and has very poor protection
  • Has the same weak spots as the preceding Abrams
  • The mantlet can be penetrated by almost all shells, will only stop weaker versions of HEATFS
  • The Italian CL1343 APFSDS found on the Ariete line of tanks can penetrate some areas of the gunner's side turret cheek at close range
  • Least manoeuvrable Abrams in the game, due to its weight of 61.7 tonnes
  • its stock HEATFS shell is borderline useless at top tier due to every tank you face having more than 600mm of chemical protection or being coated in ERA
  • APFSDS is a tier III unlock

History

In the second half of the 1980s, a development project was launched to increase the combat effectiveness of the Abrams MBT. The result of this undertaking became the M1A2 version of the Abrams.

The new version featured an upgraded fire control system, a new independent commander’s panoramic sight as well as improved protection thanks to the use of second generation depleted uranium composite armor. All of these upgrades combined significantly bolstered the combat capabilities of the Abrams tank. Production of the M1A2 began in 1986 and the modification was formally introduced into US service in 1992.

The M1A2 and its sub-variants are the most advanced modifications of the Abrams tank fielded to date. Over 1,500 M1A2s have been built with some older variants also being upgraded to the M1A2 standard. Apart from the U.S. as its primary operator, the M1A2 also sees service with the armed forces of Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.

- From Devblog

Media

Images
  • M1A2, Cobra King II, prepped for combat.
  • M1A2, Angel of Death, scanning the horizon on Kursk.
  • M1A2 sporting the unlockable Allied Spirit VIII skin.This skin represents US Army units in Europe, 2018.

See also

Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:

  • reference to the series of the vehicles;
  • links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.

External links


USA medium tanks
M2  M2
M3  M3 Lee · ▃Grant I
M4  M4 · Calliope · M4A1 · M4A1 (76) W · M4A2 · M4A2 (76) W · M4A3 (105) · M4A3 (76) W · M4/T26
M26 Pershing  T20 · T25 · M26 · M26 T99 · M26E1
M46/47/48 Patton  M46 · M46 "Tiger" · M47 · M48A1 · T54E1 · T54E2
M60  M60 · M60A1 (AOS) · M60A1 RISE (P) · M60A2 · M60A3 TTS · M728 CEV · 120S
MBT-70  MBT-70 · XM803
M1 Abrams  XM1 (Chrysler) · XM1 (GM)
  M1 Abrams · M1 KVT · IPM1
  M1A1 · M1A1 HC · M1A1 Click-Bait
  M1A2 Abrams · M1A2 SEP · M1A2 SEP V2
Other  T95E1
Australia  M1A1 AIM
Canada  M4A5
Israel  ▃Magach 3 (ERA) · ▃Merkava Mk.1 · ▃Merkava Mk.2B · ▃Merkava Mk.3D
Turkey  M60 AMBT

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