Challenger 3 in sharp shooting action

Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL) has successfully completed the first crewed live firing of Challenger 3 – a significant step towards delivery of the British Army’s next-generation Main Battle Tank. The latest trials, held at a MOD Training Centre, marked the first UK firing of a newly developed Main Battle Tank in more than 30 years. Part of the progressive assurance of the tank’s capabilities and systems before it enters service, the trial followed a carefully phased programme, beginning with remote operation before progressing to crewed firing by Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land personnel. 

Challenger 3 is equipped with the 120mm smoothbore L55A1 cannon manufactured by Rheinmetall. It fires the latest kinetic energy anti-tank rounds and programmable multipurpose ammunition. 

Following this milestone, the tank will undergo further trials, as it moves towards operational service as the centrepiece of the British Army’s modernisation programme.
The vehicles, designed and produced by RBSL from its Telford (UK) factory, are a leading example of advanced military vehicle production. They show great collaboration between Britain, her allies and respected vehicle systems suppliers across the UK and Europe.

Challenger 3 will deliver a step change in lethality, survivability and digital integration. 148 modernised tanks will be delivered to the British Army. Challenger 3 is being produced by Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land under an £800+ million contract, creating highly skilled roles, with 300 jobs within RBSL and an additional 450 jobs across the UK. The contract attracted a £40 million inward investment in Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land’s Telford facility, utilising a European supply chain, the majority being skilled UK-based SMEs spread throughout the UK, from the West Midlands, Glasgow, Newcastle upon Tyne to the Isle of Wight.