The M1 Abrams main battle tank was developed at the height of the Cold War, but did not see combat until Operation Desert Storm.

While US forces would most likely be outnumbered during a Soviet attack in Western Europe, the M1 tank was designed to take on enemy vehicles using superior mobility, armor, technology, and devastating firepower.  Driven by a gas turbine engine, the M1 tank is quick and powerful.  The first Abrams tanks went into service with the US Army in 1981.

The M1 eventually proved itself against the Soviet tanks it was designed to fight, however it did so in the Arabian Desert instead of the forests and grasslands of Europe.  During the Gulf War, M1s took on Iraqi T-72 tanks (as well as other types) and efficiently dispatched all challengers in quick, decisive battles.

Improved versions of the M1 Abrams continue to serve as the main battle tank for both the US Army and Marine Corps and are projected to stay in service for many decades.