The US Army's modern tank arsenal has undergone significant changes since World War I, with advancements driven by both technological innovations and lessons learned from various conflicts. Among its current inventory are several cutting-edge tanks that have replaced older models like the M1 Abrams.

One such example is the new lightweight tank currently under development for the U.S. military. Dubbed the XM360, this latest addition to American armor promises improved performance over its predecessors in terms of mobility and firepower while still maintaining sufficient protection against modern threats.

The need for a lighter yet equally effective tank arose from operational experiences during Iraq War II (2003-2011), where existing platforms like the M2 Bradley proved too heavy and cumbersome on challenging terrain. To address these issues, engineers at US Army's Aberdeen Proving Ground began working on an entirely new design using advanced materials science techniques.

Some key features expected in this next-generation tank include:

1) Composite armor - Comprising a combination of traditional steel plates reinforced with lightweight but incredibly hard composite panels made from materials like ceramic and/or composites such as carbon fiber, these components will help reduce weight while maintaining excellent resistance against kinetic energy threats (KETs).

2) Low-observable design: The XM360 features sleeker lines and reduced signature characteristics designed to make it harder for enemy forces equipped with advanced sensors/radar systems to detect.

3) Improved mobility - Through the use of state-of-the-art propulsion technologies such as hybrid electric drives, improved suspension systems, etc., this new generation tank should offer significant gains in terms both speed and agility compared its predecessors.

4) Enhanced fire control system (FCS): Equipped with advanced sighting optics including thermal imaging capabilities along side integrated computerized stabilization solutions to improve accuracy during rapid target acquisition scenarios.

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