At the exhibition in Britain, a ready sample of the Challenger 3 tank was presented for the first time (video)

Observers noted that two such machines have been produced to date. And after appropriate tests, full-scale production of the remaining 140 units will begin.

At Defense Vehicle Dynamics (DVD) 2024 in Millbrook, the British Army, together with Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL), presented the new Challenger 3 main battle tank, which is considered one of the most advanced in its class. This is the first public display (OBT) of the Challenger 3, which is already being called the deadliest tank ever used by the British Armed Forces. On September 18, the columnists of Army Recognition told more about the event.

Challenger 3 is produced at the RBSL plant in Telford, Great Britain, and is an example of advanced production of military vehicles. Developed using the latest technologies and in close cooperation with the British Army, the tank provides high operational efficiency, safety and comfort for the crew.

Observers noted that a total of 148 Challenger 3 tanks will be upgraded, two of which have already been produced, and another six are planned to be delivered in the near future. Performance testing is currently underway before full-scale production of the remaining 140 units begins.

Specs

The Challenger 3 MBT has received many technical improvements over its predecessor, the Challenger 2. One of the most significant upgrades is the change in armament: the Challenger 3 is equipped with a 120mm L55A1 smoothbore gun, which is significantly superior in firepower to the previous L30A1 rifled gun and provides greater compatibility with modern NATO ammunition In addition, the new gun makes it possible to use modern projectiles with kinetic energy and programmable ammunition, which significantly increases the lethality of the tank.

200% Deposit Bonus up to €3,000 180% First Deposit Bonus up to $20,000

In terms of protection, the Challenger 3 also takes a significant step forward. While the Challenger 2 relied on Chobham armor, the Challenger 3 is equipped with next-generation modular armor developed by the Defense Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL) and RBSL. The new armor incorporates modern materials and modular components that allow for faster repairs and upgrades, providing increased protection against modern threats such as armor-piercing projectiles and improvised explosive devices.

The new tank's ability to provide situational awareness and capture targets has also been significantly improved. Unlike the Challenger 2, which had advanced targeting systems for its time, the Challenger 3 has a fully digital architecture and network system that enables real-time data sharing and integration with other warfighting assets. Advanced surveillance systems, including a 360-degree view and a thermal imager, make the Challenger 3 much more effective in detecting, identifying and engaging targets.

The tank also received a more powerful engine and upgraded suspension, which provide better mobility and acceleration, which critical to the dynamics of today's battlefield.

“These features make the Challenger 3 one of the most advanced main battle tanks (MBTs), enabling it to meet the demands of future wars,” — observers concluded.

Earlier it was reported that the British Challenger 3  became the first tank in the world to reach a combat range of 5,000 m. In terms of firing range, the British machine surpassed its direct competitors, the American M1A2 Abrams and the Russian T-90M, which able to hit a target at a distance of 4000 m.