The United Defense M8 Armored Gun System was an American light tank that was intended to replace the M551A1 Sheridan in the 82nd Airborne Division, as well as being expected to replace TOW-equipped Humvees in the 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment (2nd ACR). The M8 project was eventually canceled in 1997. Its role in the 2nd ACR was eventually taken by the M1128 Mobile Gun System, but a modernized version of the vehicle is in trials with the US Army once more. The M8 Buford light tank was developed by FMC to participate in the Airborne Gun System (AGS) programme. The aim of this programme was to develop a light air-droppable tank for the airborne troops. It was intended to replace the M551A1 Sheridan. The first prototype of the XM8 was built in 1985. This tank was selected as a winner in the Armored Gun System programme and was redesignated as the M8 in 1996. Unfortunately the whole Armored Gun System programme was canceled in 1996 and the M8 Buford did not entered service with the US Army, leaving airborne forces dangerously low on firepower. By 2019 this tank was still proposed for possible customers.
The M8 Buford uses combined aluminum and steel armor. Modular titanium add-on armor, including ERA packages can be added if necessary. The front armor with add-on packages protects the crew from 30 mm armor-piercing rounds. The M8 Buford is a relatively thin-skinned vehicle, designed to support infantry from covered position and to fight in areas where it is not going to run into main battle tanks.
Vehicle is completed with a fully-stabilized M68A1 105 mm rifled gun, or a Rheinmetall XM35 gun, fitted with an autoloader and fire control system. Fire control system is similar to that, used on the M1A2 Abrams main battle tank. Autoloader holds 19 to 21 rounds and provides a maximum rate of fire in 12 rounds per minute. Other projectiles are stowed near the driver. Gun can be loaded manually in case of emergency. During the trials it appeared that the ammunition compartment failed to contain the reaction of the ammunition, when hit by anti-tank weapons.
Secondary armament consists of a coaxial 7.62 mm machine gun, and roof-mounted 12.7 mm heavy machine gun.
Hope you enjoy!!
💰 Want to support my channel? Check out my Patreon Donation page!
Matt’s DREAM:
👕 Check out my Merch:
📬Wanna send me something? My PO Box: Matthew James 210A - 12A Street N Suite
#135 Lethbridge Alberta Canada T1H2J
📸 My instagram: Matt_matsimus
🎮 Twitch:
👋DISCORD:
📘 Facebook:
🐦Twitter:
M8 'AGS' Armored Gun System | IMPRESSIVE LIGHT TANK
0 Comments