M8-AGS
Encyclopedia : M : M8 : M8A : M8-AGS
The United Defense M8 Armored Gun System was a development of the private venture Close Combat Vehicle - Light (CCV-L) and was to have been the successor of the M551 Sheridan in the 82nd Airborne Division, as well as expected to replace TOW-equipped HMMWVs in the 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment (Light).
The basic hull of the M8 is made of welded aluminium alloy, with a unique modular armoring system that allows the vehicle to be equipped according to requirements. The Level I (basic) armor package is designed for the rapid deployment role and can be airdropped from a C-130 and protects the vehicle against small-arms fire and shell splinters. The Level II armor package can still be carried by C-130, but must be airlanded and is designed for use by light forces in a more serious threat environment, while level III armor is designed for contingency operations and is supposed to provide protection against light handheld anti-tank weapons. Level III armor cannot be carried by C-130. All versions are air-transportable by C-5 Galaxy and C-17 (five and three respectively).
The M8 is armed with the XM35 rifled autoloading 105-mm cannon main gun with a M240 7.62mm machine-gun mounted co-axially. Because of the XM35's autoloading capability, the M8 carries a crew of 3 instead of the usual 4 crew carried by other US tanks. The XM35 has a rate of fire of approximately 12 rounds per minute, with a ready capacity of 21 rounds with 9 more in stowage. Additionally, a 0.50in M2HB machine gun is carried for anti-air duties. This can be replaced with a second 7.62mm machine-gun. Power is provided by a Detroit Diesel 6V-92TA diesel developing 580hp.
The M8 was type-classified by the US Army in late 1995 (reporting name Buford) and initially slated for production in 1996. However, the program was cancelled a few months later due to budget cuts. Since that time, United Defense has reportedly been seeking overseas customers, so far without success.
References
- Tanks of the World (pg.478-480), by David Miller
External links
- [M8 Buford Armored Gun System] at GlobalSecurity.org
- [M8 LAV] at Jane's
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