How politics shape military decisions

To combat potential threats from Soviet tanks US and West Germany started Project 70 eyeing a possible answer. Though MBT 70 was ahead of its time and had extensive protection, mobility and firepower the problems ended the project quick.

West Germany and US went seperately though co-operating often for development of new tanks. West Germany using tech from both MBT 70 and Leopard 1 ultimately developed Leopard 2. US developed XM803 from MBT-70 and despite of initial failure ultimately developed XM-1.

Two different prototypes were developed. Chrysler and General Motors delivered two platforms based on two different designs. Though during tests both faced problems related to engine but still GM was able to impress much and was closest to get the contract.

In fact Lt. Colonel George Mohrmann was informed that GM had been chosen and only the sign of Secretary of Defence was needed.

GM design had not entirely successful but variable compression ratio diesel while Chrysler one had a gas turbine engine which not only was expensive but was high fuel consuming one too. Lt. Col George only had to deliver to Congress a sealed letter containing confirmation .

But then came bolt from the blue. Secretary of Defense-Donald Rumsfeld and Secretary of the Army-Martin Hoffman found Deputy Defense Secretary-Bill Clements and Director of Defense Research and Engineering-Malcolm Currie demanding a turbine engine for new tank! Chrysler stuff!

Chrysler design was powered by AGT 1500 gas turbine but GM one had diesel one from Teledyne Continental- AVCR-1360-3 . Both engine had 1500 hp output. As said earlier none had perfect power pack. GM was asked to present one design with turbine one. Things didn't go well.

GM design had better protection, cheaper engine, fuel efficient, better fire power , better suspension but Chrysler had better transmission and gas turbine engine which was a blue eyed boy to many. Chrysler had better political connections.

One thing couldn't be denied that Chrysler was more close to the defence sector than GM . And it was offered at a cheaper price as well. Still GM one was much close to the army's requirements . But still it was Chrysler who won the competetion. And draw initial criticism .

General Dynamics bought Chrysler . Later Leopard 2AV also went into the competetion (delayed) . But still GM XM1 didn't lose its position. Now you can see SepV3 version.