M1A! AIM (D)

Modeling Subjects Armor
1

Hey,

Another Abram question for yas,

Whats the difference between the M1A1 and the M1A1 AIM (D) … ? mainly wondering about the external differences

I noticed DML is releasing a 1/35 M1A1 AIM this year, and wanting to model an Australian Abrams (we are getting the M1A1 AIM (D) i might wait if there is anything Substantially different between the two

thanks to all who can help [:D]

2

An M1A1 AIM or Abrams Integrated Management system is basically just a manufactured M1A1 or M1A1 “HA” that has been brought to a “like new” condition. In effect, it takes a tank built in the 1980s and brings it to a zero time/zero miles condition so it is like a tank that was built in the current year.

The “D” stands for digitized and signifies the addition of the computer applique package that brings an M1A1tank up to M1A2 standards as far as the integrated electronics that allow the tank commander to “see” all the other digitized tanks on the battlefield by looking at his display screen.

I hear that the Australians are not getting the depleted uranium armored M1A1s but the earlier ones. I do not know why not, but have surmised it could be for a few reasons:

  1. We can’t export that technology.
  2. The Aussies may not want “radioactive” tanks.
  3. It may make the tank too expensive.
  4. They may feel they do not require the additional capability.

I do not know if any of the above are true, just my guess.

3

Forgot: The only visual difference would be that the AIM and an earlier M1A1 would be the addition of the bustle rack mounted APU (if it wasn’t retrofitted to the early M1A1) and the addition of a small antenna behind the right turret sponson box for the GPS antenna.

Externally, there would be basically no difference between an M1A1 AIM(D) and an M1A1 AIM. Think of it as buying a new car and just getting a better stereo system installed.

4

whoa, that was quick, thanks for clearing that up tho, from what i have read i think its just a “non-nuclear” (or something there abouts) military stance , as far as i know, nothing in our inventory is run on or made of radioactive materials, plus the tank without the DU armour/ammunition meets the requirements, so they might of not seen the need for or be able to justify buying tanks with DU armour and ammunition,

again, thanks for the prompt reply

5

Rob’s knowledge of the M1 is just too impressive!

6

Yeah, dj, go figure! I wonder why that is! lol

hey, it took me a while to figure out waht HA meant!! (What do you expect, I was in the AF for 20 years, not the Army!)

7

3ggs. Would wait to get the pics of in service vehicles before modelling one. You know what our guys are like, they just love to mess around with the standard vehicle[:D]

8

hehe yeah,

i was trying to think what additions they could add to it, mainly thought of an extension to the bustle rack, but i’ve been wanting to build an Abram, then they announced that we’re gettin abrams so its all falling into place,

i’ve got a photoetched Leopard AS1 Stencil that i can use for most of the markings …

be good to see how accurate i can get it [:P]