The M1 IP (Improved Performance) was an incremental upgrade to the basic M1 Abrams. Introduced into production in 1984, the IP provided a number of upgrades, most visible of which was the so-called 'long turret' which incorporated thicker frontal armor. The M1 IP remained briefly in production during 1984 with almost 900 examples built before the production line transitioned to the M1A1, which incorporated additional features including the 120mm smoothbore main gun.
Features:
- New-tool 'long turret'
- Photo-etched mesh for rear bustle rack
- Wheel hubs are molded separately from the rubber tires
- Drive sprocket features the original track retainer ring
- T156 tracks interconnect with guide teeth and end caps
- Photo-etched screens for rear vents/turbine exhaust
- Photo-etched screens for engine deck
- Clear periscopes
- Positionable crew hatches
- Optional loads for smoke grenade launchers
- Positionable gunner sight doors
- Machine guns on commander and loader hatches
Decals:
- M1 IP, 4th Bn/2nd Bde/3rd AD, 1987 Canadian Army Trophy, Bill the Cat artwork on turret
- M1 IP, 3rd BN/32nd Armor/1st CAV, NTC, 1987
