Challenger 2 Main Battle Tank
The superb Challenger 2 (CR2) is the British Army's Main Battle Tank. CR2 is based on the Challenger 1 that served with distinction on operations in the Gulf War and the Balkans.
Only 5 per cent of Challenger 2 components are interchangeable with its predecessor; over 150 major modifications include a completely new turret, L30 CHARM 120mm gun and second generation Chobham armour.
Challenger 2's Thermal Observation and Gunnery (TOGS) displays a magnified image for the commander and gunner. The commander has a gyro-stabilised fully panoramic sight with laser range finder and thermal imager. The gunner is equipped with a gyro-stabilised primary sight with a laser range finder and coaxially mounted auxiliary sight. The driver's position has an image-intensifying day and night periscope, and the loader has a day sight.
| Crew |
4 |
| Length |
11.55 m (gun forward) |
| Width |
3.5 m |
| Height to turret roof |
2.49 m |
| Combat weight |
62,500 kg |
| Main armament |
120 mm L30 CHARM (CHallenger main ARMament) Gun |
| Ammunition |
50 rounds - APFSDS, HESH, Soke (Typical) |
| Secondary armament |
C-axial 7.62 mm chain gun, 7.62 mm GPMG (turret mounted) |
| Ammunition |
4,000 rounds 7.62 mm |
| Engine |
1,200 bhp Perkins-Condor CV12 |
| Maximum speed |
59 kph |