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A valuable
attachment
BY LT Peter Martinelli
Edition 1171, July 26, 2007 |
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| HEAVY METAL: Lt Mackay Gair with a US Abrams while working with its crew to better his understanding of the tank. Picture: Cpl Chris Moore |
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A DARWIN tankie has expanded his knowledge of the Army’s latest piece of heavy metal while on Exercise Talisman Saber.
Lt Mackay Gair, 1 Armd Regt, observed the logistic affect of the Abrams while employed with the US Marines.
“It’s a matter of keeping on top of the logistics – the vehicle itself is an excellent platform,” Lt Gair said.
“The Abrams is going to increase the intensity of the resupply chain – they have a quicker turn around than we are used to.”
He was attached to the US Marine Reserve 4th Tank Battalion from Washington state, which advanced through Shoalwater Bay Training Area with elements of 2RAR.
“The unit I advanced with was very resourceful,” Lt Gair said. “They have been very flexible and are able to adapt quite easily.”
The battle-proven 61-tonne, 9m tank has taken the torch from the Leopard at 1 Armd Regt.
It can reach speeds of up to 66km/h on Australian roads and up to 48km/h cross country with a cruising range of up to 480km.
“With the Leopard you had to fight and earn everything you did in the turret,” Lt Gair said.
“The Abrams has a much better sighting system, a much better fire control system, and is a lot more accurate.” |
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