U.S. Approves $325M Abrams Tank Sustainment Package for Kuwait

The U.S. State Department has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to Kuwait, covering sustainment support for its M1A2 and M1A2K Abrams main battle tank fleet, at an estimated cost of $325 million.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified Congress of the proposed deal today.

Kuwait has requested equipment and services to support both legacy M1A2 and the newer M1A2K tank variants. The request includes non-lethal items such as spare and repair parts, replacement materials, and logistics services aimed at keeping its armored forces operational in the desert environment.

The principal contractor will be General Dynamics Land Systems of Sterling Heights, Michigan.

Kuwait operates a fleet of 218 M1A2 tanks delivered in the 1990s, recently supplemented by the M1A2K, a variant adapted for high-temperature and sandy environments. The M1A2K includes upgrades such as a thermal management system, an auxiliary power unit, and a Counter Sniper Anti-Materiel Mount for its M2 heavy machine gun. It also features the Common Remotely Operated Weapons Station (CROWS) II, enhancing crew protection during engagements.

Maintaining these tanks in the Gulf’s harsh climate is logistically demanding. The gas turbine engine of the Abrams, while powerful, requires frequent inspection. Components like second-generation FLIR sights and radios are susceptible to heat-induced degradation. The sustainment package aims to address these issues through a steady flow of parts and technical assistance.

Kuwait’s emphasis on sustainment, rather than upgrading to newer variants like the U.S. Army’s M1A2 SEPv3, reflects a focus on maintaining existing capabilities. However, this approach leaves gaps in areas such as active protection systems (APS), which are increasingly seen as critical in countering threats from drones and top-attack munitions.