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Originally Posted by The_Dunedan
The T-80 -probably- can't match the M1 for speed. The Abrahms is still, if I'm not mistaken, the fastest tank in the world. The T-80, like the M1, utilizes a gas-turbine engine, although the Ukrainian versions switched to a diesel. The T-80 is also significantly smaller (thus harder to hit) than the M1, which further increases the advantage offered by the (probable) range advantage of its' 125mm gun.
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I keep hearing about this "gas turbine" engine, and I think people are getting the wrong impression. The Abrams does not run on just regular "gasoline" It operates on JP-8 Jet fuel, not regular unleaded...lol. The GOVERNED speed of the Abrams is 45 MPH. But with minor work is capable of 60 to 65 MPH speeds.
Also, one MAJOR advantage the Abrams has over the T-80, and any other tank out there as well, is MTA, or Mobile Target Aquisition. This system allows the main gunner to find a target, laser range, prep and fire, while the Commander is simultaneously targeting and ranging a second target. Immediately after the Gunner fires, the Abrams will rotate the turret, lock in, and change elevation as required, while the loader is loading the next round. The Commander also has an override system. Example: Gunner is facing forward with turret, and is targeting an enemy unit. The commander, in his separate range finder sees an enemy unit to the right, who is about to fire. The Commander can override the gunners target, and the computer will lock on NEW target and fire. NO other tank in production is capable of this.