Origin[]
The M28 is the first 5th generation MBT tested and adopted by the USA and Israel. The M28 built on the M21 MacArthur MBT prototype, a 4th generation MBT which did not see service due to its unreliable powertrain capped with a miniaturized nuclear reactor. The project involved 4 companies, Artemis Weapons Company, Chrysler, Ford automobile company, and Israeli Weapons Industry. Development started in 2027, being completed in 2029, and now has phased out the M1A3 and Merkava Mk.5 in both the US and Israeli armored forces.
Design[]
The XM28 prototype was completed in july of 2028, Using a revolutionary Fusion Drive putting out 2100 hp, propelling the tank to 84 km/h, and being much safer than the nuclear reactor of previous models. The engine uses 4 fusion cells tucked next to the engine, with easy changing provided by 2 fold up panels on the engine deck. This allows the tank to be much smaller, not needing the extra space required by fuel tanks. The prototype also had a coaxial 40mm automatic grenade launcher mounted above the 127mm tank gun M18. This was replaced by a 20mm machine cannon mounted co-axially on the finial model as the 40mm grenades sometimes struck the barrel due to the unpredictable ballistics of the launcher, especially during turret traverse. The gunner and commander have access to a full optical suite, and the commander has a Tactical Command System to coordinate infantry, other tanks, and close support, including light kinetic bombardment from 4 different US Air Force Space Corps Stations (USAFSS Achilles, Thor, Mjolnir, and Zeus. The tank also has access to GPS navigation and active and passive countermeasures for ATGMs. The main gun is the 127mm tank gun M18 fed by an autoloader in the turret bustle, thus eliminating the dedicated loader position. The loader position was taken over by the optional position of engineer, assisting in repairs, taking over other crew positions, and occasionally loading the main gun in the event that the autoloader malfunctioned or was knocked out.