Elbit Systems of America subsidiary Real-Time Laboratories (RTL) has received a contract from the US Army to develop Turret Distribution Manifolds for the M1 Abrams main battle tank.

The manifold is a hydraulic component that supports the operations of the heavily armoured M1 Abrams tank and can be controlled by both the gunner and commander using control handles.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

The RTL-designed technology allows operators to give commands to rotate the turret atop the vehicle, raise or lower the tank’s gun barrel or load ammunition.

RTL general manager Bob Knabe said: “RTL has a long history with the M1 Abrams tank.

“We understand this platform and are continuing to refine various components, so they’re optimal for the soldiers operating these large battle tanks.”

RTL is currently manufacturing seven components for the M1 Abrams tank. The company will perform the contract work in Boca Raton, Florida.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

The General Dynamics Land Systems-built M1 Abrams battle tank is in service with the US Army and US Marine Corps. Other users include land forces in Kuwait, Egypt, Australia, Iraq and Saudi Arabia.

In January, GDLS received a delivery order from the US Army to modernise more than three brigades of tanks.

The contract involves upgrading an additional 174 M1A1 Abrams tanks to the M1A2 System Enhancement Package Version 3 (SEPv3) configuration.

Improvements include technological advancements in communications, reliability, sustainment and fuel efficiency, as well as upgraded armour.

Earlier this month, Palomar Display Products won orders to deliver military display systems for the M1A Abrams tank.

Army Technology Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Army Technology Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact across the defence sector.

Excellence in Action
Virtualitics has clinched both the Innovation and Business Expansion awards for its Integrated Readiness Optimization (IRO) AI suite, transforming maintenance, sustainment and operational decision-making across the US DoD. Discover how explainable AI and predictive insights are redefining mission readiness, risk management and joint-force efficiency.

Discover the Impact