The Insane Engineering of the M1 Abrams

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Published 2023-04-22
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Credits:
Writer/Narrator: Brian McManus
Editor: Dylan Hennessy
Animator: Mike Ridolfi
Animator: Eli Prenten
Sound: Graham Haerther
Thumbnail: Simon Buckmaster
Spanish VO: Josi Gold
French VO: Lorraine Boissoneault

References:

Select imagery/video supplied by Getty Images
Thank you to AP Archive for access to their archival footage.

Music by Epidemic Sound: epidemicsound.com/creator

Thank you to my patreon supporters: Abdullah Alotaibi, Adam Flohr, Henning Basma, Hank Green, William Leu, Tristan Edwards, Ian Dundore, John & Becki Johnston. Nevin Spoljaric, Jason Clark, Thomas Barth, Johnny MacDonald, Stephen Foland, Alfred Holzheu, Abdulrahman Abdulaziz Binghaith, Brent Higgins, Dexter Appleberry, Alex Pavek, Marko Hirsch, Mikkel Johansen, Hibiyi Mori. Viktor Józsa, Ron Hochsprung

All Comments (21)
  • For the first time ever this episode is available with both French and Spanish voice overs. We have also made a sound effect and music free dub under “English (Ireland)” for anyone they prefers the most pure version of my voice 😂
  • @MrGoesBoom
    The fact that this tank is technically over 40 years old ( I say technically since it's been constantly updated ) yet is still considered a top tier asskicker is definite kudos to the people who designed them.
  • @QuilloManar
    "The exact specifications of the M1 Abrams armour is strictly classified" War Thunder Players: "Not for long."
  • @crypto_que
    We were on patrol and FREEZING one night when we came up on the Cav & took a break. Man this tank is a life saver the TC in the turret provides watch and the heat from the engine keeps us warm (and dry) until it’s time to move on. I love this tank.
  • @arnelnarvae9742
    As a retired USMC Tanker who participated in Desert Shield/Storm, OIF, OEF, this is a comprehensive and most interesting video. Thanks for making it! SEMPER FI...SEMPER TANKS
  • @gooflydo
    When I was in the military (2000-2004). I remember these things being Insanely quiet when they needed to be. Like people had to put up glow lights in order to make sure the tanks didn't run them over by accident while they were sleeping. I thought it was very stupid until I heard one only 30 feet from where I was getting ready to go to bed, and I could barely hear it. It was very eerie, like seeing an elephant tiptop or something.
  • @saeklin
    Love the ever-increasing layers of armor for specific scenarios. "The lab nerds told us to spread a thick layer of chunky peanut butter on top. We don't understand why, but they assure us its 100% necessary."
  • Fun fact: The M1 and many modern MBTs can travel upwards of 100kph, it's just that their transmission is governed to around 68-72kph to preserve the tank's lifespan and for the safety of the crew
  • @The_Viscount
    For those not familiar with US designation convention, M is short for Model, and A is Alteration. SEP refers to a specific series of upgraded equipment. So the Model 1, Alteration 2 with a Systems Upgrad Package becomes M1A2 SEP. Abrams is the model name. Specifically, the tank is named for Creighton Abrams, a Vietnam era General. After all, we have a lot of pieces of equipment called M1, so it helps to specify the model's name.
  • Forty years of top performance. What a tribute to all involved, from designers to operators, to maintenance. Thanks to all who serve(d)!
  • @johngardner2807
    I was chosen to work on the xm project,in its early developement,due to my MOS of 63Hotel20(Heavy wheeled/tracked repairman). The hydrogas chamber kept leaking ,so we chose the torque rod system. I left the military,in 1981,after 9 years service. Seeing all the improvements,makes me proud to see the tank has become so advanced,and safer ,for the crew !
  • @kit888
    16:45 The Chieftain cannon is rifled, the Leopard cannon is smooth bore. So even though both are 120mm, they can't use the same ammunition.
  • @Devinci297
    I was a tank mechanic for 5 years! Great stuff. My favorite part was taking apart the engine completely one time and rebuilding it. My worst was replacing the transmission! 😆
  • Started out as a loader in this thing during desert storm, then driver, then gunner and then track commander. Loved it, smooth, fast, accurate and a beast. I miss tha turbine wind up soooo much.
  • @user-md8ri9ot3f
    The sheer quality of production of these videos absolutely boggles the mind. These animations are top of the line. Great work from your team..
  • @gary2smooth
    There is no better auto loader in the world than Greg off several monster energy drinks
  • @RyzawaVT
    The engine heat signature animation was super cool. The 3d model of the interior is also gnarly!
  • In high school I wanted to be a Marine tanker. I enlisted and got put in artillery, but I served with a few tankers and being on base, you are bound to see everything else you are stationed with, so it was always a treat to see an Abrams roll by. I never saw them on the range unfortunately.
  • Great work! Your engineering skills and attention to detail are really impressive. Well done!