Abrams Upgrade Program

The Abrams Upgrade Program is a key initiative by the Army aimed at enhancing the capabilities of existing Abrams tank variants. The primary goal is to upgrade these tanks to the M1A2 System Enhancement Package version 3 (SEPv3) configuration. This upgrade focuses on improving tank survivability, lethality, and mobility while also enhancing system reliability and durability. Significant modifications include turret and hull armor upgrades, mine blast improvements, and the integration of advanced technologies such as reactive armor tiles and improved countermine equipment.

The program's objectives include managing industrial base costs associated with daily operations and supporting production plants. It aims to mitigate obsolescence through Bill of Materiel screening and hardware refresh projects. The Abrams Upgrade Program supports total package fielding and provides training devices to facilitate fleet upgrades. Additionally, it ensures that critical suppliers receive System Technical Support (STS) for seamless integration of modifications into the fielded Abrams fleet.

The production process begins at Anniston Army Depot with vehicle and component refurbishment, followed by final assembly at General Dynamics Land Systems' Joint Systems Manufacturing Center in Lima, Ohio. Essential elements such as Government Furnished Equipment procurement, including engines, transmissions, and mounting hardware for mine plows and rollers, are supported. Furthermore, it supports field modification efforts by procuring and installing necessary hardware to enhance the tanks' capabilities against near-peer adversaries.

In terms of future planning, the program has realigned its efforts for greater transparency and flexibility. Starting in FY 2022, funding for Abrams Modification efforts was shifted to provide clearer oversight. Additionally, Government Owned - Government Operated (GOGO) and Government Owned - Contractor Operated (GOCO) efforts were realigned for improved transparency. These strategic adjustments aim to ensure that the Abrams Upgrade Program remains responsive to evolving defense needs while maintaining robust support for both active and reserve components of the Armed Forces.