Developed at the height of the Vietnam war, the XM800T was built for a multi-contractor competition to fulfill a US military need for an air-droppable, scout reconnaissance tank. In order to simplify manufacturing and maintenance requirements, the XM800T was engineered to utilize preexisting parts, hardware, and tooling found in the M113 and M548 series APC designs - already in heavy use by the US Army and US Marine Corps. Additionally, FMC engineers would build a two-man turret with advanced optic systems, gun stabilization, and heightened visibility for the crew and driver. This unique vehicle was never fully adopted into service, however, ten XM800s were deployed overseas. The US government requirements would eventually be met through the redeployment of the new Sheridan light tank.
While not designed to attack other tanks, the XM800 was still well armed. Its primary weapon was the M139 20MM auto canon - the same that was utilized in some fighter jets and the US M114 APC. It additionally carried a commander's M-60 7.62MM Machine Gun on the top of the turret.
Built by FMC in San Jose, CA, the vehicle operates on a 270HP Detroit Diesel Allison 6VT-53T - the same found in most M113 series vehicles. The whole vehicle weighs in at 14 tons with a top speed of 55 MPH.
Like most US Army tanks, the crew was made up of a driver, gunner, and commander.
The Eagle Field Foundation is a California based 501C3 non-profit, all volunteer organization with a focus in education through the restoration and preservation of military artifacts, vehicles, and stories from the early 1900’s to Present Day.
