New battle tank rolls into TACOM LCMC Rock Island

By Matt Meenan, TACOM LCMC Rock IslandMarch 12, 2009

New battle tank rolls into TACOM LCMC Rock Island
An M1A2 System Enhancement Package version two, the Army's latest battle tank, rolls down Rodman Avenue on Rock Island Arsenal Feb. 27 on its way to TACOM LCMC Rock Island's Maintenance Operations Procedures Shop where it will be used to support tra... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

Rock Island, Ill. - The TACOM Life Cycle Management Command caught a glimpse of its largest new resident, an M1A2 System Enhancement Package version two battle tank, on Feb. 27 when it was delivered to support TACOM's training and maintenance missions here.

Equipment specialists from the Heavy Combat Product Support Integration Directorate armament group will use the tank, the latest addition to the Abrams family of vehicles and built at Anniston Army Depot, Ala., to ensure the effectiveness and efficiency of both new and standing maintenance procedures.

"Our mission as the Army experts on Abrams tank turret, fire control and armaments will be greatly enhanced by having the newest version of the Abrams tank at our immediate disposal," said Tom Jackson, armament group leader.

By collaborating with the Maintenance Operations and Procedures Shop, Abrams equipment specialists gain a level of on-vehicle expertise that is necessary to the customer and unmatched by any other entity.

The vehicle will also serve TACOM's training mission. Logistics Assistance Representatives, contractors and new employees take a variety of classes on the Abrams family of vehicles. The presence of the family of vehicles allows TACOM to offer specialized, hands-on training tailored to the specific audience.

The SEP V2 is an upgrade to the existing M1A2 SEP, and is more electronically-dependent than its predecessors. This requires that Abrams maintenance personnel remain abreast of the ever-changing system. The delivery of the vehicle to Rock Island will promote readiness and supportability, allowing TACOM to better support the warfighter.

TACOM LCMC Rock Island is responsible for providing seamless life cycle acquisition and logistics management for weapons, tools, and chemical defensive equipment and has been performing this mission at the Rock Island Arsenal since 1962.