The United States Army's TACOM Lifecycle Management Command awarded General Dynamics Land Systems $614 million to upgrade 235 M1A1 Abrams main battle tanks to the M1A2 Systems Enhancement Package Version Two configuration.

The most technologically advanced digital tank, the M1A2 SEP V2 includes improved color displays, day and night thermal sights, auxiliary power and a tank-infantry phone. It can also accommodate future technology improvements for compatibility with the U.S. Army's Future Combat Systems.

The order was made under a multi-year contract awarded in February 2008 which authorized the modernization of 435 M1A1 tanks that have been in the Army's inventory for more than 20 years. An additional 180 tanks remain to be upgraded through the program, which will complete the conversion of all tanks in the Army's active component to the M1A2 SEP V2 configuration.

Portions of the work will be performed at the General Dynamics Land Systems plant in Sterling Heights, with work also being performed in Anniston, Ala., Tallahassee, Fla., Lima, Ohio and Scranton, Penn.

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