M103A2

After the appearance of the M60, a program was initiated to upgrade the M103 to include the latest in components in improved mobility, fire control, and operating range. Three pilot M103A1E1s were authorized, the first being completed in March 1962.

The most obvious change was the installation of the Continental AVDS-1790-2A diesel engine. While this provided less horsepower, it did amplify the M103's operational range from 80 to 300 miles. The engine compartment and rear hull were appropriately modified to feature the air-cooling system as found on the M60. The tank's ballistic computer was also upgraded to the M14E1 standard and a xenon searchlight was also installed. These tanks were then standardized as the M103A2.

In World Of Tanks, the M103A2 should be thought of as a direct replacement for the old (Tier X) T110E5. The turret could see some slight armor buffs (especially at the cupola) to bring it up to par with the T110E5's, but the cupola itself is also notably smaller than the T110E5's. With appropriate buffs to the gun handling, this tank should be able to play identically to the old T110E5.



Guns: 120 mm Gun M58

Engines: Continental AVDS-1790-2A (750 hp)

Turrets (Turret Armor (mm)): M103A2 (254/137/51)

Suspensions/Alternate Hulls, Total Weight (metric tons): M103A2 with T97E2 Tracks (58.06)

Hull Armor (mm): 127/51/38

Top Speed: 37 km/h

Crew: 5 (Driver; Gunner; Loader; Loader; Commander/Radio)



Parent: M103
See Also: T110E5

Sources:

Hunnicutt, R. P. Firepower, 2017.

Estes, K. W. M103 Heavy Tank 1950-74, 2013.