Difference between revisions of "M60A1 (AOS)"

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<!-- ''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.'' -->
 
[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
 
[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
{{break}}
+
{{Break}}
 
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.61 "Road to Glory"]].
 
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.61 "Road to Glory"]].
  
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<!-- ''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.'' -->
  
The M60A1 is ostensibly well-protected for a battle rating 8.3 medium tank. From the front, it can resist most types of full-calibre armour-piercing shells, even at the muzzle. Across the turret, line-of-sight armour thickness varies from approximately 200-440 mm, sufficient against all types of 105 mm APDS. Across its hull, line-of-sight protection ranges from 220 mm over the upper glacis, to 280mm on the lower glacis. The upper glacis may be penetrated from 100 mm and 105 mm APDS from ranges inside of 1,000 m, while the lower glacis is completely immune to those shells. The M60A1's own 105 mm M728 APDS can defeat the upper glacis even at 2,500 m, but the lower glacis can reliably stop M728 at ranges exceeding 1,500 meters.
+
The M60A1 is well-protected for a medium tank of its battle rating. From the front, it can resist most types of full-calibre armour-piercing shells, even at the muzzle. Across the turret, line-of-sight armour thickness varies from approximately 200-440 mm, sufficient against all types of 105 mm APDS. Across its hull, line-of-sight protection ranges from 220 mm over the upper glacis, to 280 mm on the lower glacis. The upper glacis may be penetrated from 100 mm and 105 mm APDS from ranges inside of 1,000 m, while the lower glacis is completely immune to those shells. The M60A1's own 105 mm M728 APDS can defeat the upper glacis even at 2,500 m, but the lower glacis can reliably stop M728 at ranges exceeding 1,500 meters.
  
 
The M60A1 is at risk of being engaged with APFSDS, HEAT, and large-calibre (>105 mm) APDS shells, which may easily bypass its protection, despite being stronger than average. The M60A1 also features numerous weak spots that make it vulnerable to vehicles that would not normally be expected to penetrate its armour. In particular, the mantlet, commander's cupola, and turret ring are vulnerable to APCBC shells, which can instantly destroy the tank upon detonation inside of the vehicle. The sloped turret roof is easily defeated by APFSDS and the vehicle's own M728 APDS, but with some luck, it can cause HEAT-FS and HESH shells to bounce harmlessly off.
 
The M60A1 is at risk of being engaged with APFSDS, HEAT, and large-calibre (>105 mm) APDS shells, which may easily bypass its protection, despite being stronger than average. The M60A1 also features numerous weak spots that make it vulnerable to vehicles that would not normally be expected to penetrate its armour. In particular, the mantlet, commander's cupola, and turret ring are vulnerable to APCBC shells, which can instantly destroy the tank upon detonation inside of the vehicle. The sloped turret roof is easily defeated by APFSDS and the vehicle's own M728 APDS, but with some luck, it can cause HEAT-FS and HESH shells to bounce harmlessly off.
  
The vehicle's armour is optimized for head-on protection. The turret's line-of-sight thickness quickly decreases as more of its side profile is exposed. Likewise, the thin side armour of the hull may be easily overmatched and is also insufficient to protect against most armour-piercing autocannon shells, such as 35 mm DM23 APDS. The roof is resistant to most types of armour-piercing bullets or shells fired by aircraft, but specialized munitions such as German Mk103 30 mm HVAP, or 50 mm AP, will penetrate the M60A1's 20-30 mm thick roof.
+
The vehicle's armour is optimized for head-on protection. The turret's line-of-sight thickness quickly decreases as more of its side profile is exposed. Likewise, the thin side armour of the hull may be easily overmatched and is also insufficient to protect against most armour-piercing autocannon shells, such as 35 mm DM23 APDS. The roof is resistant to most types of armour-piercing bullets or shells fired by aircraft, but specialized munitions such as German MK103 30 mm HVAP, or 50 mm AP, will penetrate the M60A1's 20-30 mm thick roof.
  
 
When facing an M60A1 head-on, a shell penetrating the left side of the turret may incapacitate the gunner and commander. A follow-up shot to the right side of the turret may strike the loader and first-stage ammo stowage, while a shell to the middle of the hull may incapacitate the driver. Shells aimed at the right side of the vehicle, when being faced head-on, present the greatest chance of setting off ammunition.
 
When facing an M60A1 head-on, a shell penetrating the left side of the turret may incapacitate the gunner and commander. A follow-up shot to the right side of the turret may strike the loader and first-stage ammo stowage, while a shell to the middle of the hull may incapacitate the driver. Shells aimed at the right side of the vehicle, when being faced head-on, present the greatest chance of setting off ammunition.
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<!-- ''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= 1162|rbMinHp= 663|<!--AoAweight=(optional) -->}}
+
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,162|rbMinHp=663}}
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 
=== Main armament ===
 
=== Main armament ===
<!-- ''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. Advise about 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|M68 (105 mm)}}
 
{{main|M68 (105 mm)}}
  
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|-
 
|-
 
! ''Arcade''
 
! ''Arcade''
| rowspan="2" | 63 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane ||21.42||29.65||36.00||39.80||42.40|| rowspan="2" |8.71|| rowspan="2" | 7.70 || rowspan="2" |7.10|| rowspan="2" | 6.70
+
| rowspan="2" | 63 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 21.4 || 29.7 || 36.0 || 39.8 || 42.4 || rowspan="2" | 8.71 || rowspan="2" | 7.70 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 6.70
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Realistic''
 
! ''Realistic''
|13.39||15.75||19.10||21.10||22.50
+
| 13.4 || 15.8 || 19.1 || 21.1 || 22.5
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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|-
 
|-
 
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
 
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
 +
|-
 +
| M728 || APDS || 260 || 258 || 250 || 240 || 231 || 222
 
|-
 
|-
 
| M393A2 || HESH || 127 || 127 || 127 || 127 || 127 || 127
 
| M393A2 || HESH || 127 || 127 || 127 || 127 || 127 || 127
 
|-
 
|-
 
| M456 || HEATFS || 400 || 400 || 400 || 400 || 400 || 400
 
| M456 || HEATFS || 400 || 400 || 400 || 400 || 400 || 400
|-
 
| M728 || APDS || 260 || 258 || 250 || 240 || 231 || 222
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="11" | Shell details
+
! colspan="10" | Shell details
 
|-
 
|-
 
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
 
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
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! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity<br>(mm)
 
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity<br>(mm)
 
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass<br>(TNT equivalent) (g)
 
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass<br>(TNT equivalent) (g)
! rowspan="2" | Normalisation at 30°<br>from horizontal
 
 
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
 
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
 
|-
 
|-
 
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
 
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
 
|-
 
|-
| M393A2 || HESH || 732 || 14.85 || 0.4 || 0.1 || 4,306 || +0.0° || 73° || 77° || 80°
+
| M728 || APDS || 1,426 || 4.65 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 75° || 78° || 80°
 
|-
 
|-
| M456 || HEATFS || 1,173 || 10.5 || N/A || 0.1 || 1,271 || +0.0° || 65° || 72° || 75°
+
| M393A2 || HESH || 732 || 14.85 || 0.4 || 0.1 || 4,310 || 73° || 77° || 80°
 
|-
 
|-
| M728 || APDS || 1,426 || 4.65 || N/A || N/A || N/A || +1.5° || 75° || 78° || 80°
+
| M456 || HEATFS || 1,173 || 10.5 || 0.05 || 1 || 1,270 || 65° || 72° || 77°
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center"
 
 
! colspan="7" | Smoke shell characteristics
 
! colspan="7" | Smoke shell characteristics
 
|-
 
|-
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* As they are modeled by sets of 2, shells disappear from the rack only after you fire both shells in the set.
 
* As they are modeled by sets of 2, shells disappear from the rack only after you fire both shells in the set.
* Racks 3*, 4*and 5* are first stage ammo racks. They total 37 shells and get filled first when loading up the tank.
+
* Racks 3*, 4* and 5* are first stage ammo racks. They total 37 shells and get filled first when loading up the tank.
 
* These racks are also emptied early: the rack depletion order at full capacity is: 3 - 4 - 5 - 1 - 2.
 
* These racks are also emptied early: the rack depletion order at full capacity is: 3 - 4 - 5 - 1 - 2.
 
* If you pack 17&nbsp;''(+46)'' shells, it will keep the front hull and the turret rear empty of ammo.
 
* If you pack 17&nbsp;''(+46)'' shells, it will keep the front hull and the turret rear empty of ammo.
 
* Simply not firing when the gun is loaded will move ammo from non-essential into ready racks. Firing will interrupt the restocking of the ready racks.
 
* Simply not firing when the gun is loaded will move ammo from non-essential into ready racks. Firing will interrupt the restocking of the ready racks.
 
* When refilling from racks 1 and 2, the refill order of ready racks is 5 - 4 - 3.
 
* When refilling from racks 1 and 2, the refill order of ready racks is 5 - 4 - 3.
 
 
<!---==== [[Optics]] ====
 
<!---==== [[Optics]] ====
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
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|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
--->
+
-->
 
 
 
=== Machine guns ===
 
=== Machine guns ===
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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|M85 (12.7 mm)|M73 (7.62 mm)}}
 
{{main|M85 (12.7 mm)|M73 (7.62 mm)}}
  
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="5" | [[M85 (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm M85]]
 
! colspan="5" | [[M85 (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm M85]]
 
|-
 
|-
! Mount
+
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
! Capacity<br>(Belt capacity)
 
! Fire rate<br>(shots/minute)
 
! Vertical<br>guidance
 
! Horizontal<br>guidance
 
 
|-
 
|-
| Commander cupola || 900 (200) || 625 || -9°/+60° || ±180°
+
| Pintle || 900 (200) || 625 || -9°/+60° || ±180°
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="5" | [[M73 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm M73]]
 
! colspan="5" | [[M73 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm M73]]
 
|-
 
|-
! Mount
+
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
! Capacity<br>(Belt capacity)
 
! Fire rate<br>(shots/minute)
 
! Vertical<br>guidance
 
! Horizontal<br>guidance
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
| Coaxial || 5,950 (250) || 500 || N/A || N/A
 
| Coaxial || 5,950 (250) || 500 || N/A || N/A
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== 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 M60A1 (AOS) performs similarly to the earlier [[M60]], but with a number of differences. With the add-on stabilizer (AOS), the M60A1 is capable of firing on the move, allowing it to engage enemies much quicker and without having to stop the vehicle first. Overall, the gun handling of the M60A1 (AOS) is quite respectable. The turret traverse is good (although not outstanding) and the stabilizer allows firing on the move and much greater reactionary ability. The only letdown in this regard is the gun's elevation speed, which is slow but not exceptionally so. Just be aware that elevating or depressing the gun to get it on target may take more time than expected.  
+
The M60A1 (AOS) performs similarly to the earlier [[M60]], but with a number of differences. With the add-on stabilizer (AOS), the M60A1 is capable of firing on the move, allowing it to engage enemies much quicker and without having to stop the vehicle first. Overall, the gun handling of the M60A1 (AOS) is quite respectable. The turret traverse is good (although not outstanding) and the stabilizer allows firing on the move and much greater reactionary ability. The only letdown in this regard is the gun's elevation speed, which is slow but not exceptionally so. Just be aware that elevating or depressing the gun to get it on target may take more time than expected.
  
The M60A1 (AOS) can not rely upon its armor as much as the previous M60 could, since the armor is negated by HEAT-FS ammunition that is common at that tier. It should be noted that it will stop most of full caliber rounds, meaning the commander must know which tanks use full caliber rounds (mostly [[T-54/55 (Family)|T-54/55]], all French tanks with exception of the [[AMX-30 (Family)|AMX-30]]). Additionally, the armor is still relatively thick and is able to bounce and absorb even APDS depending on where it hits. Still, the armor should not be relied upon.  
+
The M60A1 (AOS) cannot rely upon its armour as much as the previous M60 could, since the armour is negated by HEAT-FS ammunition that is common at the rank. It should be noted that it will stop most full-calibre rounds, meaning the commander must know which tanks use full-calibre rounds (mostly [[T-54/55 (Family)|T-54/55]], all French tanks with exception of the [[AMX-30 (Family)|AMX-30]]). Additionally, the armour is still relatively thick and is able to bounce and absorb even APDS depending on where it hits. Still, the armour should not be relied upon.
  
'''''When in urban combat:'''''
+
'''When in urban combat:'''
  
As previously said, the armor of the M60A1 can sometimes be reliable and sometimes not, meaning you should always act as if the tank you are engaging will penetrate your armor nevertheless. The AOS adds the capability to peak out of corners while moving and doing a hard stop, compared to its previous counterparts (the M47, M48, M60), it is able to have faster engagements without the need to stop, adjust the gun elevation and fire as the stabilizer will keep the gun aiming where you are aiming all the time while moving. It should be noted that, when peaking out of corners, the M60A1 lacks fast reverse speed. Aim for breach, cannon barrel or gunner when peaking out of corners to be safe while reversing, use smoke if needed.
+
As previously said, the armour of the M60A1 can sometimes be reliable and sometimes not, meaning you should always act as if the tank you are engaging will penetrate your armour nevertheless. The AOS adds the capability to peek around corners while moving and doing a hard stop, compared to its previous counterparts (the M47, M48, M60), it is able to have faster engagements without the need to stop, adjust the gun elevation and fire as the stabilizer will keep the gun aiming where you are aiming all the time while moving. It should be noted that, when peeking around corners, the M60A1 lacks fast reverse speed. Aim for their breech, cannon barrel or gunner when peeking out of corners to be safe while reversing, use smoke if needed.
  
'''''When in rural combat:'''''
+
'''When in rural combat:'''
  
The M60A1 has really good sniping capabilities and decent hull armor to withstand impacts with exception of chemical energy ammunition (HEAT, ATGM, PG, etc.). When doing hull down, the turret mantlet is capable of withstanding a wide variety of ammunition (sometimes even chemical energy ammunition but do not count on it happening all the time). It is recommended to use the HEAT-FS round as it will not loose armor penetration at any distance, it also has more penetration than the APDS shell but lower muzzle velocity, rounds should be taken at commander's discretion. Use range finder to increase accuracy at long ranges.
+
The M60A1 has really good sniping capabilities and decent hull armour to withstand impacts with exception of chemical energy ammunition (HEAT, ATGM, PG, etc.). When hull-down, the turret mantlet is capable of withstanding a wide variety of ammunition (sometimes even chemical energy ammunition but do not count on it happening all the time). It is recommended to use the HEAT-FS round as it will not lose armour penetration at any distance, it also has more penetration than the APDS shell but lower muzzle velocity, rounds should be taken at commander's discretion. Use rangefinder to increase accuracy at long ranges.
  
 
=== Modules ===
 
=== Modules ===
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=== M60A1 ===
 
=== M60A1 ===
  
==== '''Development''' ====
+
==== Development ====
 
In 1960, work was started to upgrade the M60 main battle tank, as the T95 project and the project to create composite armor ended. The prototypes fitted the T95E7 turret on the hull of the M60. In order to increase the room in the turret for the crew the gun used the M140 mount, which moved the gun forward 5 inches. The first two prototypes (Pilot 1 and 2) were ready in May 1961, and the third prototype (Pilot 3) was ready in June 1961. The prototypes were designated as the M60E1, and they were all built by Chrysler Defense. Pilot 1 was tested at Eglin Air Force Base, Pilot 2 was tested at Yuma Test Station, and Pilot 3 was tested at Fort Knox. The M60E1 was accepted for American service on 22 October 1962. The designation for production M60E1 tanks was Tank, Combat, Full Tracked: 105-mm Gun, M60A1. Production began on 13 October 1962, with an order of 720 units by the Army.
 
In 1960, work was started to upgrade the M60 main battle tank, as the T95 project and the project to create composite armor ended. The prototypes fitted the T95E7 turret on the hull of the M60. In order to increase the room in the turret for the crew the gun used the M140 mount, which moved the gun forward 5 inches. The first two prototypes (Pilot 1 and 2) were ready in May 1961, and the third prototype (Pilot 3) was ready in June 1961. The prototypes were designated as the M60E1, and they were all built by Chrysler Defense. Pilot 1 was tested at Eglin Air Force Base, Pilot 2 was tested at Yuma Test Station, and Pilot 3 was tested at Fort Knox. The M60E1 was accepted for American service on 22 October 1962. The designation for production M60E1 tanks was Tank, Combat, Full Tracked: 105-mm Gun, M60A1. Production began on 13 October 1962, with an order of 720 units by the Army.
  
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'''Turret'''
 
'''Turret'''
  
The main feature of the M60A1 was a new turret, which was the turret of the T95E7 medium tank prototype. The new turret had more armor protection, and it also could had more room for the crew, because of the new M140 gun mount. A fume extractor was added to the rear of the turret bustle, on the left side; this would prevent fumes and smoke from accumulating inside the vehicle when the weapons were fired. The loader and gunner received padded seats, replacing the wire mesh seats which were uncomfortable. Ammunition for the main gun was increased to 63 rounds, with 15 rounds in the turret bustle, several rounds in the turret ring, and the rest stored in the hull. The turret was equipped with a new traversing mechanism, and an AN/VSS-1(V)1 IR searchlight was fitted above the gun mantlet. It received the M19 FCS, which consisted of the M17A1 coincidence rangefinder, M10A1 ballistic drive, and the mechanical M19E1 ballistic computer for the gunner. The M60A1 tank uses the M68E1 105 mm gun. The M68E1 gun shared the same firing characteristics as the M68, but had several design improvements including an updated gun hydraulic configuration, a stabilization upgrade for the gun (but not a full stabilizer), a gun elevation kill switch for the loader, an improved ballistic drive, and other component refinements.
+
The main feature of the M60A1 was a new turret, which was the turret of the T95E7 medium tank prototype. The new turret had more armor protection, and it also could had more room for the crew, because of the new M140 gun mount. A fume extractor was added to the rear of the turret bustle, on the left side; this would prevent fumes and smoke from accumulating inside the vehicle when the weapons were fired. The loader and gunner received padded seats, replacing the wire mesh seats which were uncomfortable. Ammunition for the main gun was increased to 63 rounds, with 15 rounds in the turret bustle, several rounds in the turret ring, and the rest stored in the hull. The turret was equipped with a new traversing mechanism, and an AN/VSS-1(V)1 IR searchlight was fitted above the gun mantlet. It received the M19 FCS, which consisted of the M17A1 coincidence rangefinder, M10A1 ballistic drive, and the mechanical M19E1 ballistic computer for the gunner. The M60A1 tank uses the M68E1 105 mm gun. The M68E1 gun shared the same firing characteristics as the M68, but had several design improvements including an updated gun hydraulic configuration, a stabilization upgrade for the gun (but not a full stabilizer), a gun elevation kill switch for the loader, an improved ballistic drive, and other component refinements.
  
 
=== M60A1 (AOS) ===
 
=== M60A1 (AOS) ===
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== See also ==
 
== See also ==
 
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 
''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.''

Revision as of 21:29, 13 November 2020

Rank VI USA | Premium | Golden Eagles
A-10A Thunderbolt (Early)
M60A1 (AOS)
us_m60a1.png
M60A1 (AOS)
AB RB SB
8.3 8.3 8.3
Class:
Research:135 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:380 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
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This page is about the American main battle tank M60A1 (AOS). For other vehicles of the family, see M60 (Family). For other uses, see M60 (Disambiguation).

Description

GarageImage M60A1 (AOS).jpg


The 105 mm Gun Tank M60A1 (AOS) is a rank VI American medium tank with a battle rating of 8.3 (AB/RB/SB). It was introduced in Update 1.61 "Road to Glory".

General info

Survivability and armour

The M60A1 is well-protected for a medium tank of its battle rating. From the front, it can resist most types of full-calibre armour-piercing shells, even at the muzzle. Across the turret, line-of-sight armour thickness varies from approximately 200-440 mm, sufficient against all types of 105 mm APDS. Across its hull, line-of-sight protection ranges from 220 mm over the upper glacis, to 280 mm on the lower glacis. The upper glacis may be penetrated from 100 mm and 105 mm APDS from ranges inside of 1,000 m, while the lower glacis is completely immune to those shells. The M60A1's own 105 mm M728 APDS can defeat the upper glacis even at 2,500 m, but the lower glacis can reliably stop M728 at ranges exceeding 1,500 meters.

The M60A1 is at risk of being engaged with APFSDS, HEAT, and large-calibre (>105 mm) APDS shells, which may easily bypass its protection, despite being stronger than average. The M60A1 also features numerous weak spots that make it vulnerable to vehicles that would not normally be expected to penetrate its armour. In particular, the mantlet, commander's cupola, and turret ring are vulnerable to APCBC shells, which can instantly destroy the tank upon detonation inside of the vehicle. The sloped turret roof is easily defeated by APFSDS and the vehicle's own M728 APDS, but with some luck, it can cause HEAT-FS and HESH shells to bounce harmlessly off.

The vehicle's armour is optimized for head-on protection. The turret's line-of-sight thickness quickly decreases as more of its side profile is exposed. Likewise, the thin side armour of the hull may be easily overmatched and is also insufficient to protect against most armour-piercing autocannon shells, such as 35 mm DM23 APDS. The roof is resistant to most types of armour-piercing bullets or shells fired by aircraft, but specialized munitions such as German MK103 30 mm HVAP, or 50 mm AP, will penetrate the M60A1's 20-30 mm thick roof.

When facing an M60A1 head-on, a shell penetrating the left side of the turret may incapacitate the gunner and commander. A follow-up shot to the right side of the turret may strike the loader and first-stage ammo stowage, while a shell to the middle of the hull may incapacitate the driver. Shells aimed at the right side of the vehicle, when being faced head-on, present the greatest chance of setting off ammunition.

When facing an M60A1 from the side, shells penetrating the turret bustle, or hull between the front and middle return rollers, may strike the vehicle's large supply of first-stage ammunition. Some M60A1 drivers may select a reduced ammunition load, so although shells which strike the driver's compartment may incapacitate the driver, they cannot be guaranteed to set off ammunition. Otherwise, shells aimed at the turret between the bulbous rangefinder housing, and before the area where the 25mm flat roof plate meets the sloped 48 mm roof plate, have the greatest chance of incapacitating the entire turret crew.

Armour type:

  • Cast homogeneous armour
  • Rolled homogeneous armour (Rear roof, Engine grille)
Armour Front Sides Rear Roof
Hull 108 mm (66°) Front Glacis
137 mm (54°) Lower Glacis
36 - 70 mm 25 mm (1°) Engine Grille
40 mm (31°) Top
28 mm (61°) Bottom
36 mm Front
20 mm Engine deck
Turret 215 + 50.8 mm (1-43°) Turret front left
230 + 50.8 mm (4-50°) Turret front right
127 mm (8-57°) Gun Mantlet
215 - 49 mm 57 mm 48 mm Front
25.4 mm Center
Armour Front Sides Rear Roof
Cupola 127 mm 70 mm 50 mm 101.6 mm

Notes:

  • Tracks are 30 mm thick while suspension wheels are 20 mm thick.
  • Belly armour is 19 mm in the front, 13 mm in the rear.
  • 15 mm RHA plate between the engine and crew compartment.

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 54 13 48 1,162 1,431 24.21 29.81
Realistic 49 12 663 750 13.81 15.63

Armaments

Main armament

Main article: M68 (105 mm)
105 mm M68 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 63 -10°/+20° ±180° Two-plane 21.4 29.7 36.0 39.8 42.4 8.71 7.70 7.10 6.70
Realistic 13.4 15.8 19.1 21.1 22.5

Ammunition

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Type of
warhead
Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
M728 APDS 260 258 250 240 231 222
M393A2 HESH 127 127 127 127 127 127
M456 HEATFS 400 400 400 400 400 400
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead
Velocity
(m/s)
Projectile
Mass (kg)
Fuse delay
(m)
Fuse sensitivity
(mm)
Explosive Mass
(TNT equivalent) (g)
Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
M728 APDS 1,426 4.65 N/A N/A N/A 75° 78° 80°
M393A2 HESH 732 14.85 0.4 0.1 4,310 73° 77° 80°
M456 HEATFS 1,173 10.5 0.05 1 1,270 65° 72° 77°
Smoke shell characteristics
Ammunition Velocity
(m/s)
Projectile
Mass (kg)
Screen radius
(m)
Screen deploy time
(s)
Screen hold time
(s)
Explosive Mass
(TNT equivalent) (g)
M416 730 11.4 20 5 25 50

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the M60A1 (AOS)
Full
ammo
1st
rack empty
2nd
rack empty
3rd
rack empty
4th
rack empty
5th
rack empty
Visual
discrepancy
63 49 (+14) 38 (+25) 17 (+46) (+59) (+60) No

Notes:

  • As they are modeled by sets of 2, shells disappear from the rack only after you fire both shells in the set.
  • Racks 3*, 4* and 5* are first stage ammo racks. They total 37 shells and get filled first when loading up the tank.
  • These racks are also emptied early: the rack depletion order at full capacity is: 3 - 4 - 5 - 1 - 2.
  • If you pack 17 (+46) shells, it will keep the front hull and the turret rear empty of ammo.
  • Simply not firing when the gun is loaded will move ammo from non-essential into ready racks. Firing will interrupt the restocking of the ready racks.
  • When refilling from racks 1 and 2, the refill order of ready racks is 5 - 4 - 3.

Machine guns

12.7 mm M85
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Pintle 900 (200) 625 -9°/+60° ±180°
7.62 mm M73
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 5,950 (250) 500 N/A N/A

Usage in battles

The M60A1 (AOS) performs similarly to the earlier M60, but with a number of differences. With the add-on stabilizer (AOS), the M60A1 is capable of firing on the move, allowing it to engage enemies much quicker and without having to stop the vehicle first. Overall, the gun handling of the M60A1 (AOS) is quite respectable. The turret traverse is good (although not outstanding) and the stabilizer allows firing on the move and much greater reactionary ability. The only letdown in this regard is the gun's elevation speed, which is slow but not exceptionally so. Just be aware that elevating or depressing the gun to get it on target may take more time than expected.

The M60A1 (AOS) cannot rely upon its armour as much as the previous M60 could, since the armour is negated by HEAT-FS ammunition that is common at the rank. It should be noted that it will stop most full-calibre rounds, meaning the commander must know which tanks use full-calibre rounds (mostly T-54/55, all French tanks with exception of the AMX-30). Additionally, the armour is still relatively thick and is able to bounce and absorb even APDS depending on where it hits. Still, the armour should not be relied upon.

When in urban combat:

As previously said, the armour of the M60A1 can sometimes be reliable and sometimes not, meaning you should always act as if the tank you are engaging will penetrate your armour nevertheless. The AOS adds the capability to peek around corners while moving and doing a hard stop, compared to its previous counterparts (the M47, M48, M60), it is able to have faster engagements without the need to stop, adjust the gun elevation and fire as the stabilizer will keep the gun aiming where you are aiming all the time while moving. It should be noted that, when peeking around corners, the M60A1 lacks fast reverse speed. Aim for their breech, cannon barrel or gunner when peeking out of corners to be safe while reversing, use smoke if needed.

When in rural combat:

The M60A1 has really good sniping capabilities and decent hull armour to withstand impacts with exception of chemical energy ammunition (HEAT, ATGM, PG, etc.). When hull-down, the turret mantlet is capable of withstanding a wide variety of ammunition (sometimes even chemical energy ammunition but do not count on it happening all the time). It is recommended to use the HEAT-FS round as it will not lose armour penetration at any distance, it also has more penetration than the APDS shell but lower muzzle velocity, rounds should be taken at commander's discretion. Use rangefinder to increase accuracy at long ranges.

Modules

Tier Mobility Protection Firepower
I Tracks Parts Horizontal Drive
II Suspension Brake System FPE Adjustment of Fire M393A2
III Filters Crew Replenishment Elevation Mechanism M416 NVD
IV Transmission Engine Artillery Support M456 Rangefinder

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Powerful gun
    • Very accurate gun at long ranges when upgraded
    • Good stock shell (APDS)
    • HEAT-FS and HESH shells available
  • Decent turning capability
  • Very good stock turret transverse speed
  • Great off-road speed (but not as great as Leopards and T-10Ms)
  • Sloped armour can be quite bouncy at range
  • Once fully upgraded it offers very sharp handling and manoeuvrability
  • Excellent acceleration when fully upgraded
  • Gun comes with AOS (Add-On-Stabilizer)

Cons:

  • Very high profile, made worse by a cupola
    • Commander cupola armour is very large and very thin, can be penetrated easily by APCBC and HEAT rounds
    • Enemy shells can bounce off the turret roof (due to the angle) and could enter the cupola
    • Commander's .50cal HMG is slower in manoeuvrability and not as effective compared to earlier vehicles due to the cupola
    • .50 cal coverage is limited due to commander's cupola
  • Sides are only 41 mm thick, they can be penetrated easily
  • Turret ring can be penetrated by enemy rounds
  • Front is vulnerable to HEAT and the more powerful APHE (T-10M, Maus) at close range
  • No shells with HE core

History

M60A1

Development

In 1960, work was started to upgrade the M60 main battle tank, as the T95 project and the project to create composite armor ended. The prototypes fitted the T95E7 turret on the hull of the M60. In order to increase the room in the turret for the crew the gun used the M140 mount, which moved the gun forward 5 inches. The first two prototypes (Pilot 1 and 2) were ready in May 1961, and the third prototype (Pilot 3) was ready in June 1961. The prototypes were designated as the M60E1, and they were all built by Chrysler Defense. Pilot 1 was tested at Eglin Air Force Base, Pilot 2 was tested at Yuma Test Station, and Pilot 3 was tested at Fort Knox. The M60E1 was accepted for American service on 22 October 1962. The designation for production M60E1 tanks was Tank, Combat, Full Tracked: 105-mm Gun, M60A1. Production began on 13 October 1962, with an order of 720 units by the Army.

Design

Hull

The upper glacis armor of the hull was upgraded from 3.67 inches to 4.29 inches at 65°. The steering wheel was replaced with a T-bar control, and the break and accelerator pedals were rearranged for easier usage by the driver. The tank was upgraded to the Continental AVDS-1790-2A engine and the CD-850-5 cross drive transmission, and it used the T97 track assembly. The first return roller was moved slightly, and shock absorbers were added to the second road wheel pair. The addition of the shock absorbers was due to the increased weight of the armor and new M60A1 turret.

Turret

The main feature of the M60A1 was a new turret, which was the turret of the T95E7 medium tank prototype. The new turret had more armor protection, and it also could had more room for the crew, because of the new M140 gun mount. A fume extractor was added to the rear of the turret bustle, on the left side; this would prevent fumes and smoke from accumulating inside the vehicle when the weapons were fired. The loader and gunner received padded seats, replacing the wire mesh seats which were uncomfortable. Ammunition for the main gun was increased to 63 rounds, with 15 rounds in the turret bustle, several rounds in the turret ring, and the rest stored in the hull. The turret was equipped with a new traversing mechanism, and an AN/VSS-1(V)1 IR searchlight was fitted above the gun mantlet. It received the M19 FCS, which consisted of the M17A1 coincidence rangefinder, M10A1 ballistic drive, and the mechanical M19E1 ballistic computer for the gunner. The M60A1 tank uses the M68E1 105 mm gun. The M68E1 gun shared the same firing characteristics as the M68, but had several design improvements including an updated gun hydraulic configuration, a stabilization upgrade for the gun (but not a full stabilizer), a gun elevation kill switch for the loader, an improved ballistic drive, and other component refinements.

M60A1 (AOS)

In 1972, the M60A1 (AOS) was introduced, which gave the tank an add-on stabilization (AOS) system. It was a kit that could be applied to M60A1 tanks with very little modification to the hydraulic gun control system. The AOS allows for stabilization of the gun vertically and of the turret horizontally. This allowed the gunner to track targets and control the gun and turret while the vehicle was moving; this increased the hit-on-the-move capability significantly. Before the AOS upgrade the fire-on-the-move accuracy at 2000 meters was practically 0%, whereas with the upgrade 70% accuracy was achieved. The AOS had three modes: power-with-stabilization-on, power-with-stabilization-off, and manual. Power-with-stabilization-on was the mode which stabilized the gun, power-with-stabilization-off allowed the turret to be controlled electrically when the stabilizer was not necessary, and the manual mode allowed the crew to still traverse the turret and elevate the gun if the electrical or hydraulic systems were inoperable.

Media

Skins
Videos

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