The innovations in layout and configuration developed for the Abrams TTB in the 1980s (which have been extensively copied by Russia's T-14 Armata) make a lot of sense and are likely to find their way into a next generation MBT. These are the likely features... (1 of 4)

On the other hand, we might use a universal platform for both MBT and IFV and opt for a front-engine design like Israel's Merkava... (2 of 4)

The same configurations are also relevant to a wheeled mobile gun system. In all cases, wheeled or tracked, vehicles have an unmanned turret and the crew re-located in a central compartment. This isolates them from main gun ammunition... (3 of 4)

If an 8x8 platform is to be used for MGS and IFV variants, a front engine platform may be preferable, but would have a reduced height hull. Anyway, these are just concepts not actual designs... (4 of 4)