Not trying to Stir the Pot but  "this is" a Field Expedited Mod !   for the Driver and front Fuel Cells protection.   Some stipulated it as a mere “STEP” to get on board but… No !  Its “ERA” blocks

The TUSK 1  and TUSK 2  up armor kits were fielded later  to units which missions required it more !   You see lots of tanks with partial TUSK 1 or TUSK 2 kits…   remember!   Supply chains are not always perfect and some kits were not fully installed…   either from lack of parts !  or project cut backs or just Dropping the idea has it was more of a pain than really useful !  i.e. the Rear Protection Slat Armor cage for the Engine doors.    Too cumbersome to remove to service the engine…   they quickly disappeared !

This field mod was a mere stop gap !   and give the Tank a Good reference in Time !!!    Awesome Scratch building skills my friend…  it looks the part and will make your Model Stand out !   I don’t remember ever seeing one that had this stop gap measure !     Excellent choice !   I’ll be following for sure !

Keep up the good work !   and Welcome to the herd !