M1 Abrams SEPv4: The Game Changer Tank The Army Passed On

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Key Points and Summary: The U.S. Army has canceled the development of the M1 Abrams SEPv4 tank, citing its inability to dominate the battlefield by 2040.

-The Army Science Board reported that the Abrams’ mobility, firepower, and protection would be insufficient against evolving threats, recommending the development of fifth-generation armored vehicles. In the meantime, the Army will rely on the M1 Abrams SEPv3, incorporating modular designs and advanced technologies to remain effective.

-The SEPv4’s increased weight, logistical challenges, and outdated design led to its cancellation, but the AbramsX prototype offers insights into the future of U.S. armored warfare.

The Army Axed the M1 Abrams SEPv4, Going for 5th Gen Tank 

The US Army axed the M1 Abrams SEPv4 variant for several reasons. Ultimately, the question is, was this a mistake? It is time to delve into some factors that drove the decision to move on. 

The Army Science Board (ASB) authored a report that cited several factors the Army considered. The ASB is concerned that the M1 Abrams SEPv4 will no longer be a dominant tank by 2040 and will no longer be adequate in future warfare.

The report cited the M1’s declining advantages in mobility, firepower, and protection against evolving threats. The ASB recommended the development of fifth-generation armored vehicles. Meanwhile, the Army will continue to fund the M1 Abrams SEPv3 (System Enhancement Package Version 3) variant. 

This tank includes advanced technologies like enhanced infrared detection and a powerful 120mm cannon. It will also include some of the SEPv4’s features and have a modular design, which makes it easier to incorporate new technology into an older weapon system. 

Once testing is complete, it will be named the M1A3 Abrams.

What The ASB Report Stated

The Army Science Board, a sanctioned independent group of experts who advise the Secretary of the Army, was blunt in its report. The ASB explained why the planned SEPv4 variant is inadequate for future warfare. 

The study, which took several years to complete, concluded that the Abrams tank would not be usable in operations after 2040 and recommended developing additional fifth-generation armored vehicles.

“Based on our findings, The M1 Abrams will not dominate the 2040 battlefield. All of the M1’s advantages in mobility, firepower, and protection are at risk. 

“The M1A2 SEP V3&4 upgrades will improve effectiveness but will not restore dominance. Near transparency in all domains will significantly increase the lethality our forces will experience. China and Russia have studied our forces and doctrine and are fielding countermeasures.” 

The ASB report added, “we will continue to be outnumbered, which is exacerbated by a low MBT operational readiness rate and an aging fleet.”

“The Abrams Tank can no longer grow its capabilities without adding weight, and we need to reduce its logistical footprint,” said MG Glenn Dean, Program Executive Officer for Ground Combat Systems. “The war in Ukraine has highlighted a critical need for integrated protections for Soldiers, built from within instead of adding on.”

Too Heavy For Future Logistical Transportation Moves

The SEPv3, with all of the platform’s added components, increased the tank’s weight from 76 to 78 tons; the SEPv4 weights were even higher. By comparison, the M1A1 Abrams that the United States sold to Ukraine weighed 63 tons. 

U.S. Marines assigned to 2nd Tank Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, fire a 120mm smoothbore main gun from an M1A1 Abrams main battle tank during a course of fire at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 30, 2019. The unit conducted marksmanship qualifications as a part of a biannual training exercise to certify tank crews on the M1A1 Abrams main battle tank. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Abrey Liggins)

And even those tanks are possibly too heavy for the bridges in Ukraine. 

General Dynamics, who has built the Abrams tanks for more than 40 years, is working on another tank in the Abrams family called the “Abrams X.” Currently, there is no plan to produce it. Still, some of the tank’s designs could eventually reach the M1 Abrams SEPv3/M1A3. This model is less armored and weighs 59 tons. 

Was Eliminating The M1 Abrams SEPv4 A Mistake?

Was eliminating the M1 Abrams SEPv4 a mistake? The Army is struggling to transport its troops to a modern war in the Indo-Pacific region. The Abrams was already a heavy tank, but the SEPv4 weighs about 80 tons. The upgrades and additional protection systems require more weight to be bolted on the side of the hull or turret. 

And as we know, logistics win wars. 

Until the Army develops a 5th-generation tank, the M1 Abrams SEPv3 will have to do. At least for now, it is still one of the best tanks in the world. 

VLC1 – M1A1 Abrams from 1-72nd Armor Regiment line up in preparation to assault a town during Warrior Focus, a training exercise involving the entire 1st HBCT, Feb. 10 at the Combined Arms Collective Training Facility at Rodriguez Live Fire Complex.

About the Author

Steve Balestrieri is a 19FortyFive National Security Columnist. He served as a US Army Special Forces NCO and Warrant Officer. In addition to writing for 19FortyFive, he covers the NFL for PatsFans.com and is a member of the Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA). His work was regularly featured in other military publications.