"M1A2 tanks not M1A1...the newer and more advanced version": The first time GAO disputed this idea—"modernizing" US heavy tank fleet— was 1996, while panning "operational readiness," cost of Army maintenance "overhaul" per unit, and acquisition of additional units.

[Abrams] M1 TANKS, Status of Proposed Overhaul Program: "The Army does not maintain data that shows the extent, if any, of the latent deficiencies, nor does the Army have a predictive readiness system that would show what would happen to operational readiness if there were no depot overhaul program."

35 years and two invasions later, land-roving proved no longer fit for "modern" US expeditionary purposes and variable terrain. Consider parallel R&D of light-infantry MANPADs, UAVs, USVs, UMVs ("drones"), satellite-guided missile systems, and nuke-propelled submarines as well as USAF quixotic quest for stealthy air superiority.

Nevertheless, DOD continues to feed purchase orders to Abrams principal manufacturer (General Dynamics FKA Chrystler) and its subcontractors for detail modifications that expand the "product line". Why is that? To underwrite US arms dealers' inventory of sunk cost for sale (cash or finance) to foreign "partners".

military-today | M1A1, M1A2, M1A2 SEP, TUSK one "Whispering Death" chassis, varied amenitites

...Development of improved M1A1 began in 1988 [Gulf War!]. About 1,200-1,500 M1A2 main battle tanks were delivered to the US army. Out of this number approximately 1,000 out-dated M1 main battle tanks [MBTs] were upgraded to the M1A2 standard. It is planned that this tank will remain in service beyond 2050. The M1A2 has been exported to Kuwait (218) and Saudi Arabia (457)....

military.com | M1A2 Abrams Main Battle Tank
mobile phone service!