First pictures released of the new Challenger II fitted with the L55 smoothbore gun and upgraded urban armour package.

It is planned to retrofit the exiisting Challenger II's with the Rheinmetall L55 smoothbore gun utilising a modified turret. The ammunition is now stored in the turret bustle in the same manner as the M1 Abrahms.

Also upgraded is the armour package with SLAT armour and Dorchester Applique armour on the turret and track runs. ERA to the fron as per existing fit, and improved armour protection against top and bottom attack.

All tanks will now get a Selex Enforcer remote Weapons Station taking either a 7.62 or 12.7mm MG, (circled).

Also being developed for Challenger II are;

Shot location system,
Panoramic thermal sights for commander/driver,
Hard Kill Defensive Aid System,
Electro-optical countermeasures,
Electric Armour,
Gun Launched Anti Tank Guided Missile

Quoted: Now whats the hatch for on the vertical surface right above the main gun?

TOGS, Thermal Observation and Gunnery Sight.

Quoted: Now all they need to do is install tha new anti-RPG system I read about. You know, the one that shoots down incoming RPG/and probably ATGM rounds before impact.

Hard Kill Defensive Aid System


It's in the works...

Quoted: That vehicle is still not production ready, though. It's a technology demonstrator, the rounds are still stored on the ground next to the tank because the inside of the turret has to be completely reconfigured. ATDU were telling me that they needed to build an entirely new turret, the cost was just a little shy of what CR2 cost new. Might as well, in addition to the complete stowage reconfiguration, they also need to do a better job of Bowman installation. Plus, the tankies still want a HESH round developed. NTM

This one has the magazine fitted in the Bustle...