With a new Dragon M1 about to be released, just what does the terms AIM/ Sept actually mean and is there visible differances to the vehicles

Cookie

AIM=Abrams Integrated Management which is fancy speak for a rebuilt/upgraded M1A1.

SEP=Systems Enhancement Program distinguishes an early M1A2 from a later M1A2SEP. There are some minor differences between the M1A2 and M1A2SEP, mainly in that the auxillary power unit is relocated from the bustle rack to the inside hull.

Well, I AIM usually, SEP' when I'm spraying and praying :-)


I've been wondering this myself, Is there any major differences between the different Abrams (i.e. SEP, AIM, straight M1A1) or are they only cosmetic?

You can also have a look at Gino (HeavyArty)'s article on this subject :
http://www.armorama.net//features/613

HTH
Frenchy

In the Us Navy we called it SLEP or Service Life Extension Program. It added any of the latest updates to programing and Hardware to our equipment. This was done to allow the equipment to last into the future and be able to last on the battle front.

The AIM program was more than a SLEP (which also occurs in the Army). AIM tanks were completely stripped, the hulls separated from the turrets and remanufactured to current standards. Tanks were brought to a "like new" status.