OVERVIEW
The M9A12 AEP V2 is a late-generation variant of the long-serving M9 Main Battle Tank family, refined for high-intensity combat, dense urban environments, and prolonged frontline operations. It retains the proven M9 hull and automotive systems while significantly improving protection and battlefield resilience.
This vehicle is designed as a frontline MBT, not a prototype or tech demonstrator.
KEY CAPABILITIES
- Main Battle Tank firepower with stabilized main gun and advanced fire control
- 25 mm autocannon for engaging IFVs, SPAAs, light armor, and soft targets
- Soft-Kill APS with 16 automated chaff launches to defeat radar-guided threats
- Heavy ERA coverage on turret and hull sides (AEP V2 configuration)
- Protected sensors and systems, tested against prolonged small-arms fire
- High mobility with a proven, reliable powerpack
- Crew survivability-focused internal layout
ARMOR ENHANCEMENT PACKAGE V2 (AEP V2)
The AEP V2 upgrade was introduced after operational testing revealed weaknesses in earlier protection layouts.
Changes include:
- Removal of turret slat/cage armor (from the experimental CPP variant)
- Relocation of side ladders to the rear
- ERA installed in previously exposed side sections
- Improved protection against HEAT threats without excessive vehicle widening
This results in a mechanically safer and combat-reliable configuration
DEVELOPMENT HISTORY
- M9A0 (1958) - Original platform enters service
- M9A1-M9A4 (1959-1966) - Received big upgrades during this period
- M9A5-A10 (1969-1975) - Incremental upgrades in fire control, protection, and electronics
- M9A10 APS (1976-1991) - Active protection systems introduced
- M9A11 NSP (1992-2002) - Digital navigation systems added (separate commander/driver displays)
- M9A12 CPP (no service) - Experimental cage protection (later removed)
- M9A12 AEP V2 (2002-2022) - Finalized armor layout and survivability refinements
- [REDACTED] (2022-present) - Further upgraded variants (classified)
Multiple attempted replacements (such as the M75 program) failed to outperform the M9 in real combat, leading to continued development of the platform instead.
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