Alex Candlin 18th April 2024 at 4:23pm
The Challenger 3, one of Europe’s most lethal tanks, has rolled off the production line, Defence Secretary Grant Shapps has announced.
Eight prototypes of the main battle tank have been completed and British soldiers will soon get their hands on 140 more vehicles offering advanced armour, devastating firepower and state-of-the-art technology.
“This tank will be at the heart of the British Army’s warfighting capabilities and will be integral to the UK’s deterrence,” said Mr Shapps.
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The Challenger 3 is expected to be in service until at least 2040, and has been described as the most survivable tank ever used by the British Army.
“In a more dangerous world the need for vehicles such as the Challenger 3 is imperative as the threats facing the UK evolve,” added Mr Shapps.
“The hard work and dedication on show in Telford and across the country is instrumental in driving forward UK defence innovation and delivering for our forces on the frontline.”
The vehicle has already shown its potential during initial trials.
This third iteration of the Challenger includes a state-of-the-art turret with a more capable smoothbore gun, which is compatible with Nato ammunition, as well as improved armour and sensors.
The Challenger’s previous model is currently being used by the Ukrainian armed forces in their war against the invading Russian army.
The Army’s director of programmes, Major General Jon Swift OBE, said: “Challenger 3 will be at the heart of the Army’s armoured brigade combat teams, alongside Ajax and Boxer, and is critical to the Army’s warfighting capability and the UK’s contribution to Nato.
“The delivery of these prototype vehicles, the first of which has already started trials, marks a significant milestone on the Army’s modernisation journey.”
Director General Land for Defence, Equipment and Support, Lieutenant General Simon Hamilton CBE, said: “The Challenger 3 programme is a cornerstone of the Army’s Future Soldier modernisation.
“I am delighted to see the Army, DE&S and RBSL (Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land) collaborating together to provide our soldiers with a world-class main battle tank made here in the UK.”
