Australian Army Unveils Abrams Disguised As Chinese Tank
Summary
The Australian Army's School of Armor has revealed photographs of an M1A2 Abrams tank modified to visually resemble a Chinese People's Liberation Army main battle tank, specifically the Type 99, as part of Opposing Force (OPFOR) training exercises. The transformation involved applying a distinctive PLA-style digital camouflage pattern with bright green color blocks and fitting dummy external fuel tanks on the turret rear to mimic Chinese and Russian tank designs. This surrogate platform was prepared by soldiers from B Squadron, 3rd/4th Cavalry Regiment, for use during the Royal Australian Armored Corps Officer Basic Course, which will culminate in a combined-arms exercise called Tungsten Forge/Gauntlet Strike. The primary purpose of such surrogate vehicles is to enhance training realism by improving troops' target recognition and vehicle identification skills under more authentic battlefield conditions, rather than exactly replicating adversary capabilities. This development reflects Australia's broader strategic shift toward preparing for high-end conflict in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in response to China's rapidly expanding military capabilities.
Key Takeaways
- 1. The Australian Army modified an operational M1A2 Abrams tank with PLA-style camouflage and dummy fuel tanks to simulate a Chinese Type 99 main battle tank for realistic OPFOR training exercises
- 2. The cosmetic modification is deliberately temporary, allowing the tank to be quickly restored to its standard configuration since Australia's new M1A2 SEPv3 fleet is limited and operationally critical
- 3. Australia is investing approximately $2.5 billion to acquire 75 M1A2 SEPv3 Abrams tanks under the LAND 907 Phase 2 program, with first deliveries occurring in 2024
- 4. The surrogate platform training initiative reflects Australia's growing strategic focus on potential high-end conflict scenarios involving China's military in the Indo-Pacific region
- 5. In a parallel development, China itself conducts similar surrogate vehicle training, having used HIMARS-mimicking trucks painted in Taiwan Army camouflage to prepare for potential confrontations with Western-equipped forces