First pre-production model of Army's new Challenger 3 tank deploys to Germany for trials 20th February 2024 at 4:25pm

The Challenger 3 prototype will be put through its paces under 'operational conditions' to ensure it meets British Army standards (Picture: MOD DE&S)

The Army's first pre-production Challenger 3 main battle tank has been sent to Germany to be put through its paces after rolling off the production line in Telford.

In a post on X, formerly Twitter, the Ministry of Defence's Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) announced that the Challenger 3 tank had been sent for final trials before production.

"The prototype will be put through its paces under operational conditions to ensure it meets British Army standards before production of final vehicles," the post explained.

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The post was accompanied by two photos appearing to show the tank being driven on a steep gradient and approaching a water obstacle.

The Challenger 3, is set to be the new Main Battle Tank for the future. Along with Ajax and Boxer, it will be "at the heart of the Army's warfighting capability in the Heavy Brigade Combat Teams", said the Army.

After this round of trials, it is expected that 140 tanks will be built and delivered to the British Army.

The Challenger 3 will be fitted with a new 120mm L55A1 smoothbore gun built by Rheinmetall, enabling the use of the most advanced ammunition available and commonality with many of Britain's Nato allies.

What do we know about Challenger 3 so far?

• The British Army will get a 140-strong fleet of Challenger 3 tanks.
• The tanks are expected to reach initial operating capability by 2027.
• The MOD then aims for the tanks to be fully operational by 2030.
• It weighs 66 tonnes
• It is a joint venture between UK-based BAE Systems and Germany-based Rheinmetall.

Watch: Expert says he's found the ideal tank weight – and warns Challenger 3 is too heavy.

What new technology will the Challenger 3 tank feature?

• The new tank will be fully digitised
• It will be a 24-hour, all-weather tank
• It will have a top speed of 60mph
• Its main gun will fire high-velocity ammunition capable of travelling at faster speeds and have an increased range
• Ammunition will be programmed from a new turret equipped with a 120mm smoothbore gun
• The upgraded tank will feature a new automatic target detection and tracking system
• They will have thermal long-range cameras and an upgraded engine with a new cooling system and suspension

Watch: Last October, Forces News took a look at the Challenger 3's new cutting-edge digital periscope