The U.S. Army Tank Automotive and Armaments Command (TACOM) Lifecycle Management Command awarded General Dynamics [GD] $49.7 million under an existing contract to upgrade M1A1 Abrams tanks to the M1A2 Systems Enhancement Package V2 configuration.
The work, expected to be completed by January 2017, continues an effort started in 2008 to upgrade all the Army’s M1A1 tanks that have been in the inventory for more than 20 years.
This newest V2 configuration includes improved color displays, day and night thermal sights, commander remote operated weapon station, a Thermal Management System and a tank-infantry phone, according to a General Dynamics press release.
Production will be performed by existing employees in Anniston, Ala.; Tallahassee, Fla.; Sterling Heights, Mich.; Lima, Ohio; and Scranton, Pa.