Had a chance earlier today to look at the demo vehicle for the Armor Warfighting Symposium. Simple M1A1 AIM TUSK, the M1A2 will not be demo'd. Didn't get any pictures, mostly because this was a nice, surprise visit of opportunity (don't always get a chance to carry a camera). But, here's some early notes:

Three main components on the M1A1 that I had a chance to touch:

LAGS: Not the vertical one that is a temporary issue in Iraq today - is the angled variant with the transparent panels on each side, with an an armored ring that goes around the skate ring. Variation on the TAGS.

The ARAT (Tiles) is a significant modification from the old skirts, not just an applique over the existing skirts. Will be interesting to scratch. Although some repetitve pieces, would definitely be a good thing if you know how to make your own photo etch.

The Dismount Phone in the rear: Nice simple box, would be pretty easy to scratch, most of the components easily available.

I'll try to snag some photos. This should be interesting, some nice stuff supposed to be on display. Here's the current list:

M1A1 TUSK
M1A1 with CSAMMS
Stryker MGS
Stryker RV
Paladin
M113 with Add on Armor
M1A2 SEP

There's a few other variations and vehicles, but it should be nice to see this stuff once it's all set up. Hope to see some of you all there.

Jed

I wish I could be there with my camera

Thanks for the info, I do hope you can get some pics and post them here!

Hey Jed I should be there Friday, check your yahoo

Ric

Just resurrecting this thread, since this Symposium was a little while ago now. Did anyone manage to get some photos taken, and if so, posted anywhere? Would like to see some of the LAGS and ARAT on the Abrams and the A2 SEP. Rob G, I did catch your pic of the LAGS on ML, some more like that would be great to see.

Cheers,
Jim

I'm not an Abrams expert so any info I give out is suspect. I did take a half dozen photos but have not uploaded them (besides the LAGS pic). When I get to it, I'll put them in my motor pool album. I may have time in the next week or so since I'm taking a couple of weeks of leave.