A U.S. Army M1A2 Abrams main battle tank has been reportedly accidentally firing on another tank during a training exercise at Fort Bliss.
On July 20, an incident with friendly fire occurred at the Fort Bliss training ground in Texas during firing at moving targets.
Some sources reported that one of the “Abrams” tanks hit another tank from its own cavalry regiment from a distance of 2,600 meters.
One soldier was injured in an accident when the M1002 multi-purpose training round hit his tank. Tank’s crew responded quickly to render aid.
The 120mm training ammunition, used by Abrams tanks during exercise, includes the M865 kinetic energy and the M1002 multi-purpose tank training rounds.
The M1002 is matched ballistically to the time-of-flight parameters of the M830A1, thus creating realistic training. The tailcone stabilizer provides a safety feature, which limits the overall flight range to under 8km, reducing the requirement for extreme-range safety fans.
In a statement to Military Times, officials from the 1st Armored Division confirmed that M1 Abrams accidentally fired on another tank at Fort Bliss.
One soldier was injured, received immediate medical assistance, and is recovering in stable condition, according to Lt. Col. Lindsey Elder, an Army public affairs officer.
1st Armored Division has started an investigation into the incident, Elder said in an email to Military Times.
“Until the investigation is complete, we have no further comment,” she said.
