The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) announced on 1 October that it had awarded a  $37 million contract to the Honeywell International Inc.

According to the DoD, Honeywell International Inc., Phoenix, Arizona, was awarded a $37 million contract for tank engine parts for the AGT-1500 tank engine. One bid was solicited with one bid received.

The DoD said the work will be performed in Phoenix, Arizona and is expected to be completed by October 2020.

According to the Honeywell, the AGT1500 gas turbine engine has been the force behind the Abrams M1 Main Battle Tank (MBT) mobility since the early 1980s. It provides the power, speed, quick acceleration and quiet operation which have earned the M1 such high marks across all military theatres. It has maneuvered more than 39 million operating miles, and demonstrated outstanding in-service reliability through the enhancements introduced through the total integrated engine revitalization (TIGER) program.

Engine output peaks at 1,500 hp (1,120 kW), with 2,750 lb-ft (3,754 N-m) of torque at that peak, which occurs at 3000 RPM. This is output after a 10:1 reduction gearset in the engine assembly.

Maximum torque of 3950 lb-ft (5,355 N-m) is reached at 1000 RPM. The engine can use a variety of fuels, including jet fuel, gasoline, diesel and Marine Diesel.

The AGT1500 has become the heartbeat of the Abrams family of battle tanks. Its compact design, cold-starting, instant power, multifuel capabilities and stealthy operation are just part of what makes this engine the world standard for tank durability and survivability.

Thanks to its simple modular design, operational readiness for the AGT1500 engine is outstanding. Unlike a diesel, which has to be serviced as a whole engine, the AGT1500 can easily be separated and serviced in the field, keeping more vehicles operating.