Tomorrow's ground combat system will bear little semblance to today's tank. It's likely to be smaller, lighter and more versatile than today's 67-ton M1A2 Abrams tank. That will allow it to be shipped quickly anywhere a conflict erupts. It's also likely to rely on speed, advanced weapons and flexibility instead of heavy armor and big guns. To achieve these goals, ORNL is heading a DOE project to allow the Army to leverage technologies in lightweight armor, wireless communications, fuel and solar cells, high-energy weapons, robotics, training and other areas. In each of these areas, ORNL and partner DOE labs have expertise that can help the military develop future combat systems to counter tomorrow's threats.
Menu