Washington braces for tank parade amid infrastructure concerns
On 14th June, a military parade will take place in Washington to celebrate the 250th birthday of the American Army. It coincides with Donald Trump's 79th birthday. Among the equipment on display will be Abrams tanks. However, it was realised at the last moment that they are too heavy for the city's streets.
The Associated Press reported that authorities planned to install heavy-duty metal plates on key parts of Washington’s streets to shield the pavement from damage caused by the passage of 25 M1 Abrams tanks scheduled to move through the capital on June 14.
Preparations for the parade
The Abrams tanks are to be one of the main highlights of the prepared parade, and therefore, the idea of not showing them is not being considered.
The Associated Press reminds us that each such machine weighs over 60,000 kilograms and is operated by a four-person crew. The metal plates, weighing hundreds of kilograms, are to be placed in areas where, according to the plans, the tanks will be turning, in order to minimise damage.
The costs of the event will be huge
The parade and accompanying events could cost between £20 million to even £36 million. Approximately 6,600 soldiers, 150 various vehicles, and 50 helicopters are scheduled to participate.
According to assumptions, every military conflict in which the United States participated will be represented by 60 soldiers in historical uniforms and 400 soldiers in current combat uniforms.
Will tanks damage Washington streets?
Ultimately, the costs of the parade could be even higher because, according to the Reuters agency, the quoted amounts do not include cleanup costs and potential damages. Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser emphasised that if the tanks could damage the roads, then the funds for their repair should be included at the planning stage of the event.
Americans present at the parade will have the opportunity to see most likely the Abrams tanks in the M1A2 SEPv3 version up close. These are tanks equipped with a 120 mm smoothbore cannon, a remotely controlled weapon station CROWS with a large-calibre 12.7 mm machine gun, and two 7.62 mm machine guns. Each such tank measures nearly 10 metres in length and almost 4 metres in width. Despite this and the aforementioned weight of over 60,000 kilograms, due to an engine power of 1,500 horsepower, it is capable of accelerating to speeds of over 65 km/h.
