In the mid-1970s, the M60A1 underwent another modernization aimed at improving engine reliability. The upgraded tanks entered service with the U.S. Army in the late 1970s as the M60A1 (RISE). A few years later, additional equipment was added to enhance combat effectiveness, including passive night vision devices for the gunner, commander, and driver, as well as smoke grenade launchers. By the late 1980s, the tanks were equipped with ERA reactive armor to strengthen protection against shaped-charge threats. With these upgrades, the tank received the new designation M60A1 RISE (P) (short for "Reliability Improved Selected Equipment"(Passive). These tanks have participated in numerous modern conflicts and continue to be operated by several countries worldwide.

The M60A1 RISE (P) was introduced in Update 1.71 "New E.R.A.". Compared to its predecessor, the M60A1 (AOS), it features a new M735 APFSDS round, smoke grenade launchers, and, most notably, ERA armor, which significantly increases protection against HEAT munitions. However, even with ERA, the M60A1 cannot withstand APFSDS rounds, the primary ammunition type used by most tanks.