Kuwait upgrades Abrams tanks for desert battlefield

The deal, approved on June 4, 2025, estimated to be worth $325 million, will provide Kuwait with critical repair parts, spare parts and logistics support to maintain its fleet of 218 Abrams tanks. General Dynamics Land Systems, the Michigan-based manufacturer of the Abrams, will serve as the prime contractor.

The deal underscores Kuwait's commitment to ensuring its tank fleet remains operational in the harsh desert environment, but also raises questions about the long-term viability of relying on aging platforms in an era of rapidly changing battlefield threats.

The M1A2 Abrams, the cornerstone of the Kuwaiti armored forces, is a third-generation main battle tank designed by Chrysler Defense, now part of General Dynamics Land Systems. First introduced in the 1980s, the Abrams has undergone numerous upgrades to remain competitive on modern battlefields.

Kuwait's tank fleet, delivered between 1994 and 1997, consisted of 218 M1A2 tanks, later supplemented by the M1A2K, a variant tailored to Kuwait's specific needs. The M1A2K, introduced in July 2021, incorporates unique improvements such as cooling and auxiliary power systems to cope with the high temperatures and sands of the Kuwaiti desert.

The tank's 120mm M256 smoothbore gun, manufactured under license by Rheinmetall, can fire a variety of ammunition, including armor-piercing, fin-stabilized, demolition and high-explosive anti-tank rounds.

The Honeywell AGT1500 gas turbine engine, producing 1,500 horsepower, gives the Abrams a top speed of about 42 mph and the ability to travel across the flat, open terrain of the Kuwaiti desert.

The tank's composite Chobham armor, combined with depleted uranium layers in some configurations, provides robust protection against conventional threats, while an advanced fire control system and second-generation forward-facing infrared sight enhance targeting accuracy.

The M1A2K variant, developed specifically for Kuwait, includes upgrades that address the harsh operating environment of the Middle East. A key feature is the Counter Sniper Anti-Matter Mount, which mounts the 12.7mm M2 heavy machine gun above the main gun, allowing the crew to engage lighter targets without expending 120mm ammunition.

The tank also features the Common Remotely Operated Weapon Station [CROWS] II, a stabilized platform for the 7.62mm M240 machine gun, allowing for accurate fire while the crew remains protected inside the turret. These additions improve the tank's versatility in situations ranging from urban combat to desert engagements.

Maintaining a fleet of Abrams tanks in Kuwait’s desert environment is no small task. The AGT1500 gas turbine engines, while powerful, are notoriously maintenance-intensive, requiring regular inspections and replacement of components like air filters, which can easily clog in sandy conditions.

The tank's track and suspension systems also face rapid wear due to the harsh desert terrain, requiring a steady supply of high-quality replacement parts. Electronic systems, such as the second-generation FLIR sight and AN/VRC-92E SINCGARS radio, are susceptible to heat damage if not properly maintained.

Kuwait’s decision to invest in sustainment reflects an understanding of these challenges, as even a single out-of-service tank can reduce a unit’s combat effectiveness. The logistical backbone of the effort relies heavily on General Dynamics, which has a long history of supporting Abrams operators around the world .