I was wondering if anyone knew the meaning of the inverted V that appears on the side of many Abrams tanks. I have also seen pictures of the V pointing sideways. Any information? Thanks!
Steve
M1 Abrams Marking
Oct 22, 2006
4 Replies
It's a recognition marking applied to all coalition vehicles deployed to the Gulf area. The intention is to prevent attack from friendly aircraft. Doesn't always work...
"Steve Hawkins" wrote in news:xBM_g.17681$ snipped-for-privacy@tornado.ohiordc.rr.com:
"This side up." :)
cd
As stated, the inverted (pointing up) chevron was an Allied/Coalition recognition symbol. Iraq used western and Soviet equipment and the allies did too.
Just prior to Desert Shield, the US Amy Europe (USAREUR) started using a chevron/2-digit number system to replace the old geometric tactical marking system. Each battalion within a division was given a 2-digit number (00, 10, 20, ...90). The companies were given the second digit, (01=A, 02=B, 03=C, 04=D, 05=E). The platoon number was designated by a smaller chevron. Up was 1st plt, right was 2nd plt, down was 3rd plt). This system is still in use by the entire Army.
The sideways chevrons you see are probably the platoon markings. 2nd AD and 24th ID both used a chevron system as well.
"Front - towards the enemy"
<"Murtha and company's direction"
WmB
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