In a significant development for Morocco's defense capabilities, the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces (FAR) have recently taken delivery of the latest variant of the Abrams main battle tank – the M1A2 SEPv3. This marks a substantial enhancement to Morocco's land forces, previously operating older versions of the Abrams tank.
Reports indicate the arrival of the M1A2 SEPv3 tanks, observed on trains heading to the southern regions of the country. This delivery follows a contract signed in October 2020 between Morocco and the US-based General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS), the manufacturer of the Abrams tank, valued at $11.9 million. The contract aimed at upgrading 162 Abrams tanks to the M1A2 SEPv3 standard for Morocco, with an expected completion date in March 2022.
Morocco's association with the Abrams tank dates back to 2012 when it first acquired 200 M1A1 SA tanks from the US. These surplus vehicles underwent upgrades by GDLS, incorporating advanced features. Over time, Morocco further modernized its tank fleet, culminating in the acquisition of the M1A2 SEPv3 tanks.
The M1A2 SEPv3 stands as the pinnacle of the Abrams tank series, featuring a new electronic architecture, heightened protection, and improved firepower. Designed to address challenges encountered with the M1A2 SEPv2, this version introduces simplified maintenance procedures and a new auxiliary power unit. To enhance lethality and survivability, the tank boasts additional frontal armor and a data link for firing smart projectiles from its 120mm smoothbore gun.
Morocco's acquisition of the M1A2 SEPv3 aligns with its strategic vision to develop a modern and capable Royal Armored Corps, a key component of King Mohammed VI's defense policy. However, this modernization effort has faced challenges due to global confl...
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