United States Army performs live firing demonstration with M1A2 Abrams tanks in Lithuania
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Armies in the world - United States
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| United States Army performs live firing demonstration with M1A2 Abrams tanks in Lithuania. | |||
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Four M1A2 Abrams Main Battle Tanks conducted a live-fire demonstration for the Lithuanian Minister of Defense, members of the Lithuanian army and civilians showcasing the 120mm main gun, 240B 7.62mm and M2A1 .50 caliber machine guns April 9.
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 Four M1A2 Abrams tanks with crews from Team Eagle, TF 2-7 IN, 1ABCT, 3ID from Fort Stewart, Ga., fire their 120 mm main guns, April 9, for the first time in Lithuania. |
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This was the first time U.S. Army tanks fired in Lithuania. The historic event demonstrated the United States’ commitment to maintain a strong Europe and highlighted ongoing training with NATO allies during Atlantic Resolve.
“At some point you have to be on the ground to dominate the terrain,” said Col. Robert P. Ashe, commander, 1st Armor Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division. “You can’t do that in any other way besides having soldiers and tanks on the ground.” Ashe explained the commitment to Atlantic Resolve is about the U.S. being in Europe to support allies and partners, and demonstrate the U.S. ability to move equipment and personnel anywhere they are needed. |
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Sgt. Brandon M. Griffin, an M1A2 tank gunner/commander with TF 2-7 IN, said he takes great pride in his team and the main battle tank he’s responsible for.
“The whole platoon is very excited,” Griffin said. “They all have their own cameras out; they’re ready to put on a show for Lithuania.” Atlantic Resolve allows members of various military elements, U.S. and European, to work together to improve joint movements and training. “NATO is the strongest alliance in the history of the world,” Ashe said. “We all understand the importance of a strong NATO and we understand the importance of a strong Europe and we’re absolutely committed to that.”
The M1A2 is the latest generation version of the Abrams main battle tank (MBT) family. The M1A2 Abrams is upgraded with a new uranium armour fitted at the front of the hull and the turret. It offers significant protection against all known anti-tank weapons. The M1A2 MBT is armed with the M256 120-mm smoothbore gun, originally developed by Rheinmetall and manufactured under license in USA. Secondary armament consists of coaxial 7.62-mm machine gun, another 7.62-mm MG mounted over the gunner's hatch and 12.7-mm MG mounted over commander's hatch. |
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