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Australian Ministry of Defence Unveils First Images of M1A2 SEPv3 Abrams in Action.
On November 6, 2024, the Australian Ministry of Defence released official photos of the M1A2 SEPv3 Abrams main battle tank during live-fire exercises at Puckapunyal, Australia's major military training site. Though the images have since been removed from the official website, they circulated widely on social media, marking a significant step in integrating this advanced combat vehicle into the Australian Army. In parallel with this acquisition, Australia has strengthened its support for Ukraine by supplying 49 M1A1 tanks to upgrade its defensive capabilities, replacing older models while awaiting the arrival of new equipment.
Australia plans to acquire a total of 75 M1A2 SEPv3 tanks, as part of a broader program that also includes 29 M1150 Assault Breacher Vehicles, 17 M1074 Joint Assault Bridges, and six additional M88A2 armored recovery vehicles
(Picture source: Australian MoD)
The M1A2 SEPv3 represents one of the most modern iterations of the Abrams tank, known for its advanced combat capabilities and enhanced battlefield protection. This model features next-generation armor, including active protection systems like the Trophy, designed to intercept enemy projectiles. The tank is also armed with a 120mm M256 smoothbore gun, capable of firing high-energy kinetic and multi-purpose rounds with an effective range of up to 4,000 meters.
Powered by a Honeywell AGT1500 gas turbine engine, the M1A2 SEPv3 can reach a top speed of 67 km/h and has an operational range of 426 km, providing high mobility on the field. Weighing 68 tons in combat configuration, this tank combines power and durability. The integration of vehicle health management systems and replaceable modules also streamlines maintenance, facilitating repairs in operational settings.
Australian models combine newly manufactured turrets with refurbished hulls, making the M1A2 SEPv3 around five tons heavier than the M1A1 AIM models previously in service. During its appearance at the Land Forces 2024 exhibition, the floor under the tank had to be reinforced to support its impressive weight.
Under Project 907, Australia plans to acquire a total of 75 M1A2 SEPv3 tanks, as part of a broader program that also includes 29 M1150 Assault Breacher Vehicles, 17 M1074 Joint Assault Bridges, and six additional M88A2 armored recovery vehicles.
These heavy armored vehicles will primarily be assigned to the 2nd Cavalry Regiment of the 3rd Brigade in Townsville, a central unit in the restructuring effort undertaken last year through the Defence Strategic Review. The new Abrams tanks are expected to arrive at the School of Armour in Puckapunyal by the end of the year, with deployment to Townsville planned for 2025. Meanwhile, the M1150 and M1074 vehicles are scheduled to join the 3rd Combat Engineer Regiment from March 2025.
With six additional M88A2 HERCULES armored recovery vehicles from BAE Systems, Australia will have 19 such systems in service, further strengthening the Army's logistical support capabilities.
Despite the proliferation of anti-tank missiles and loitering munitions, the Australian Army remains confident in the strategic relevance of main battle tanks. According to representatives, the M1A2 SEPv3 is "highly lethal, resilient, networked, and mobile. Its accuracy, protection, off-road mobility, and situational awareness make it unmatched by any other platform."
The future of the 59 M1A1 AIM tanks currently in service remains uncertain, although the Army has already salvaged some parts from these existing models. In this upgrade effort, Australia joined other U.S. allies, such as Poland and Romania, which also strengthened their forces with M1A2 SEPv3 tanks. In a climate of growing international tensions, this modern tank is proving to be a major strategic asset for both the Australian military and its partners.