The M60 entered service with the US Army in 1960, replacing the M48. It offered increased protection, range, and mobility over the M48 although armed with the same 105mm gun. By 1997, however the M60 was slated to be replaced, even in National Guard units, by the M1 Abrams. Although outdated by US standards, the M60 lives on in the weapon inventories of countries around the world.