M1 Abrams
The M1 Abrams is the main battle tank of the United States Army, first used in the Gulf War in 1991.
Specifications
History
The M1 Abrams was introduced in 1980 to replace the older M60 tank. It was named after General Creighton Abrams, a commander in the Vietnam War. The tank has thick armor made of special materials that can stop most enemy shells. It also has a powerful gas turbine engine that makes it very fast for a tank. The M1 Abrams first saw combat in the Gulf War in 1991. During Operation Desert Storm, M1 Abrams tanks destroyed many Iraqi tanks, including Soviet-made T-55 and T-72 tanks, often from far away. The M1 could hit targets while moving, which Iraqi tanks could not do. The M1 Abrams was also used in the Iraq War starting in 2003 and in the war in Afghanistan. Over the years, the tank has been upgraded with better armor, computers, and weapons. It is still the main tank of the US Army today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Used In
Combat Medals & Awards
Air Force Commendation Medal
A mid-level military award honoring airmen for meritorious achievement, bravery, or outstanding service.
Air Force Distinguished Service Medal
A high military award given for exceptionally meritorious service to the government in duties of great responsibility.
Air Medal
A military decoration awarded for single acts of heroism or meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight.
Army Commendation Medal
A decoration awarded to soldiers for heroism, meritorious achievement, or exemplary service in the United States Army.
Bronze Star
A United States military decoration awarded for heroic or meritorious achievement in a combat zone.
Distinguished Flying Cross
A United States military decoration awarded for heroism or extraordinary achievement in aerial flight.
Distinguished Service Cross
The second highest military decoration for valor awarded to members of the United States Army.
Medal of Freedom
This foreign award from the United States honored civilians and allied service members who helped defeat enemy forces during wartime.
Medal of Honor
The highest military decoration of the United States, awarded for acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty.
Navy Cross
The second highest military decoration for valor awarded to members of the United States Navy and Marine Corps.
Navy Distinguished Service Medal
A major naval decoration honoring exceptionally meritorious service to the government in duties of great responsibility.
Purple Heart
A United States military decoration awarded to those wounded or killed while serving in the armed forces.
Silver Star
The third highest military decoration for valor in the United States Armed Forces.
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