The M1A1 'Factory 200' program is a major milestone in Egyptian efforts to achieve limited military self-sufficiency. Egypt obtained US approval in 1984 to build a giant factory to produce new tanks. Under the agreement, the Egyptians will assemble 524 M1A1 tanks and officials hope that will eventually rise to 1,500 tanks. Six production cycles were established with each increment increasing the level of technology from General Dynamics Land Systems. The Egyptians also will produce the 120-mm cannon as well as an increasing number of parts for the tank.
Egyptian officials say the goal is to make Cairo self-sufficient in tank production.
Egypt has also taken steps to improve its navy. Egypt is focusing on upgrading the Egyptian fleet of eight submarines acquired from China. As part of its inculcation of Western technology, the navy holds joint maneuvers with units of the American, French, British and Italian navies. Egypt is also modernizing four Chinese-built Romeo class submarines with improved weapon systems including Harpoon missiles, fire control systems and sonars. On paper, Libya's military is far more formidable than Sudan's.