M8 AGS light tank for 15mm wargames

cults3d

The M8 Buford light tank was developed by FMC to participate in the Airborne Gun System (AGS) programme. The aim of this programme was to develop a light air-droppable tank for the airborne troops. It was intended to replace the M551A1 Sheridan. The first prototype of the XM8 was built in 1985. This tank was selected as a winner in the Armored Gun System programme and was redesignated as the M8 in 1996. Unfortunately the whole Armored Gun System programme was canceled in 1996 and the M8 Buford did not entered service with the US Army The following version of M8 and projects developed on its basis are presented: M8 AGS Level II protection with armor package consisted of additional plates of titanium, hardened steel and expanded metal. M8 AGS Level III protection with additional armor consisted of bolt-on armor boxes, and is designed for contingency operations and provides protection against light handheld anti-tank weapons. M8-120 based on the original M8 AGS but with integrated the 120 mm gun and a turret modified for it. M8 Thunderbolt technology demonstrator built by United Defense and demonstrated in 2003. The Thunderbolt had a hybrid electric drive instead of a diesel engine. The tracks were a rubber band type. Armament was an XM291 120 mm smoothbore cannon fitted with an autoloader. A storage area in place of the removed engine in the rear could be used to carry up to four crew members or other equipment, such as additional ammunition. M8 Lightning Bolt further development of the Thunderbolt with 120 mm electrothermal-chemical smoothbore cannon and the prototype of electromagnetic reactive armor. Model is designed for printing on SLA printers.