3rd Brigade to house 14 M1A2 tanks as soldier reap the benefits of digitally advanced systems

Townsville’s defence forces have been given an upgrade, with 12 of 14 recently purchased M1A2 tanks entering the gates at Lavarack Barracks. See how they compare to the older model.

Townsville has transformed into the tank hub of Australia as soldiers reap the benefits of new, digitally advanced tanks.

The 2nd Cavalry Regiment has had their tank capability boosted with the arrival of 12 out of 14 expected tanks to roll into the north by the end of the year.

The American made M1A2 Enhanced Program v3 (SEP v3) main battle tanks take advantage of newer technology and weapon systems to improve survivability and lethality compared to the former M1A1 vehicles.

One of the main improvements is the independent thermal viewer which allows for the commander to search for and designate targets so the turret (the structure that connects the gun to the hull) automatically switches between enemies.

This feature was not available on the former tanks, and means that crew members can now find and engage targets without halting.

An M1A2 Abrams Tank arrives at Lavarack Barracks, Townsville on 14 November 2024. PHOTO: CPL Guy Sadler

Officer Commanding C Squadron Major Trent Lamb said it’s like going from a landline to a brand new iphone when you compare the former ‘analog’ system with the new upgraded digital system.

“It’s fantastic. The new platform provides us with new abilities and its motivating for soldiers to receive a new piece of equipment, just like you would if you received a new car or new tool in your tool bag,” he said.

An Australian Army soldier from 2nd Cavalry Regiment drives an M1A2 Abrams Tank into it's new home at Lavarack Barracks, Townsville on 14 November 2024.PHOTO: CPL Guy Sadler

“The main difference between the M1A1 and the M1A2 SEP v3, which is our current platform, is the amount of software and sensors that are added into the platform.”

“The rapid rate that the conversion has occurred is extremely positive for (the soldiers) and they are looking forward to getting out into TFTA and other training areas with new equipment.”

Other upgrades include increased firepower with three additional weapon systems mounted on the vehicle which include a .50 calibre machine gun and two 7.62 millimetre MAG 58 machine guns.

The instalment of the Common Remotely Operated Weapon Stations (CROWS) system also means the .50 calibre machine gun can be fired while the vehicle is still moving.

“With the old tank you would have to stop to effectively engage with the .50 cal,” Major Lamb said.

“With the new platform you can continue to move while firing that weapon system so that’s how it increases the level of protection.

“Additionally the level of protection provided by the armour package has increased from the old tank to the new tank.”

The consolidation of tanks in Townsville means that 2CAV are more capable of undertaking more combined arms exercises and other tasks within Australia, with soldiers coming up from Adelaide and Brisbane to man the 70 tonne vehicles.

The M1A1 tanks will undergo a maintenance and capabilities testing period before being sent to Ukraine in accordance with the government policy.

Originally published as 3rd Brigade to house 14 M1A2 tanks as soldier reap the benefits of digitally advanced systems