[Charles Martel]

I do find it curious that we are sending the A1 version over there bec the tank has changed greatly since that version was produced.

I thought that most of the Abrams tanks that saw "major combat operations" in Iraq were the A1 variant. IIRC, the 4th I.D. has the newer A2 model, but they were late in getting to the fray. If I'm incorrect, please let me know.

[Lee'sGhost]

I think you are correct on all counts -- but do remember that GWI was more than 10 years ago. But more to the point, there was/is actually an M1 (no "A1" designation added on). That's the first production model and is actually what I was thinking of when I made my comment.

Thanks for helping to clear that up.