Challenger 2 main battle tank
Challenger 2 (CR2) is the British Army’s main battle tank. CR2 is based on the Challenger 1 tank, which served with distinction on operations in the Gulf War and the Balkans.
Only five percent of Challenger 2 components are interchangeable with its predecessor, which has had more than 150 major modifications including a completely new turret, L30 CHARM 120mm gun and second generation Chobham armour.
Challenger 2 (CR2) is the British Army’s main battle tank. CR2 is based on the Challenger 1 tank, which served with distinction on operations in the Gulf War and the Balkans.
Only five percent of Challenger 2 components are interchangeable with its predecessor, which has had more than 150 major modifications including a completely new turret, L30 CHARM 120mm gun and second generation Chobham armour.
Challenger 2’s thermal observation and gunnery 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: | 11.55m (gun forward) |
| Width: | 3.5m |
| Height to turret roof: | 2.49m |
| Combat weight: | 62,500kg |
| Main armament: | 120mm L30 CHARM (CHallenger main ARMament) Gun |
| Ammunition: | 50 rounds – APFSDS, HESH, Soke (Typical) |
| Secondary armament: | C-axial 7.62mm chain gun, 7.62mm GPMG (turret mounted) |
| Ammunition: | 4000 7.62mm rounds |
| Engine: | 1200bhp Perkins-Condor CV12 |
| Maximum speed: | 59kph |
