View source for Challenger 2

{{Short description|British main battle tank}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=March 2024}}
{{Use British English|date=February 2013}}
{{Infobox weapon
| is_vehicle         = yes
| name               = FV4034 Challenger 2
| image              = Challenger 2 Main Battle Tank patrolling outside Basra, Iraq MOD 45148325.jpg
| image_size         = 300
| caption            = A Challenger 2 tank patrolling outside [[Basra]], Iraq, during [[Operation Telic]], 2004
| type               = [[Main battle tank]]
| origin             = United Kingdom
| is_UK              = yes
| used_by            = {{ubl|[[British Army]]|[[Royal Army of Oman]]|[[Ukrainian Ground Forces]]}}
| service            = 1998–present
| wars               = {{ubl|[[UNMIBH]]|[[Kosovo War]]|[[Iraq War]]|[[Russo-Ukrainian War]]}}
| designer           = [[Vickers Defence Systems]]<ref>{{cite web | url=https://royaltankregiment.com/vehicle/cr2/ | title=Challenger 2 - Royal Tank Regiment | date=10 January 2021 }}</ref>
| design_date        = 1986–1993
| manufacturer       = {{ubli|[[Alvis plc]]|[[Vickers plc]]|[[BAE Systems Land & Armaments]]}}
| production_date    = {{ubl|1990 (prototypes)|1993–2002 (main production)}}
| unit_cost          = £4,217,000 (FY 1999)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.armedforces.co.uk/army/listings/l0023.html |title=Challenger 2 |publisher=armedforces.co.uk |access-date=16 January 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080509150124/http://www.armedforces.co.uk/army/listings/l0023.html |archive-date=9 May 2008 |url-status=live}}</ref>
| number             = about 447
| length             = {{ubli
 | {{convert|8.3|m|ftin|abbr=on}},
 | {{convert|13.5|m|ftin|abbr=on}} gun forward
}}
| width              = {{ubli
 | {{convert|3.5|m|ftin|abbr=on}},
 | {{convert|4.2|m|ftin|abbr=on}} with appliqué armour
}}
| height             = {{convert|2.49|m|ftin|abbr=on}}
| weight             = {{ubli
 | {{convert|64|t|abbr=on|lk=on}},<ref name="Workshop Manual">{{cite book |last=Taylor |first=Dick |date=2018 |title=Challenger 2 Main Battle Tank Owners' Workshop Manual: 1998 to Present |page=181 |publisher=J H Haynes & Co Ltd }}</ref>
 | {{convert|75|t|abbr=on}} with combat armour modules
}}
| suspension         = [[Hydropneumatic suspension|Hydropneumatic]]
| transmission       = [[David Brown Ltd.|David Brown]] TN54E [[epicyclic]] transmission (6 fwd., 2 rev.)
| speed              = {{ubli
 | {{convert|59|km/h|mph|abbr=on|disp=flip}} on-road,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.army.mod.uk/documents/general/285986_ARMY_VEHICLESEQUIPMENT_V12.PDF_web.pdf |title=British Army Vehicles and Equipment |publisher=Army.mod.uk |access-date=30 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101119164824/http://www.army.mod.uk/documents/general/285986_ARMY_VEHICLESEQUIPMENT_V12.PDF_web.pdf |archive-date=19 November 2010}}</ref>
 | {{convert|40|km/h|mph|abbr=on|disp=flip}} off-road<ref name="Janes143">{{cite book |last=Foss |first=Chris |title=Jane's Armour and Artillery 2005–2006 |year=2005 |url=https://archive.org/details/mainbattletanksl00cffo |url-access=limited |isbn=0-7106-2686-X |publisher=Jane's Information Group |page=[https://archive.org/details/mainbattletanksl00cffo/page/n141 143]}}</ref>
}}
| clearance          = {{convert|0.5|m|abbr=on}}<ref name="Janes143"/>
| vehicle_range      = {{ubli
 | {{convert|550|km|mi|abbr=on}} on-road,<ref name="youtube.com">{{citation |last=Maginnis |first=Chris |title=Tankfest 2013 Challenger 2 MBT (Ultra Modern Version) |date=6 July 2013 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JC1mtAR5uK0&feature=player_embedded |via=YouTube |access-date=27 November 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160413061355/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JC1mtAR5uK0&feature=player_embedded |archive-date=13 April 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref>
 | {{convert|250|km|mi|abbr=on}} off-road on internal fuel<ref name="Janes143"/>
}}
| primary_armament   = [[Royal Ordnance L30|L30A1 120&nbsp;mm]] [[rifled]] gun {{avoid wrap|with 47 rounds<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.army.mod.uk/equipment/23236.aspx |title=Combat Vehicles |access-date=4 September 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006150636/http://www.army.mod.uk/equipment/23236.aspx |archive-date=6 October 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.army-technology.com/projects/challenger2/ |title=Challenger 2 Main Battle Tank |access-date=24 December 2005 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051211173044/http://www.army-technology.com/projects/challenger2/ |archive-date=11 December 2005 |url-status=live}}</ref>}}
| secondary_armament = {{ubli|7.62&nbsp;mm [[Coaxial weapon|coaxial]] [[L94A1 chain gun]]|7.62&nbsp;mm [[L7 (machine gun)|L37A2]] loader–operator hatch machine gun}}
| armour             = [[Chobham armour|Chobham]]{{\}}Dorchester Level 2 (classified)
| engine             = [[Perkins Engines|Perkins]] CV12-6A [[V engine|V12]] [[diesel engine|diesel]]<br/>{{cvt|26.1|L|cuin}}
| crew               = 4 (commander, gunner, loader–operator, driver)
| engine_power       = {{convert|1200-1500|bhp|kW|abbr=on}}
| pw_ratio           = {{ubli
 | 18.7&nbsp;hp/t (13.9&nbsp;kW/t) at 64&nbsp;t;
 | 16&nbsp;hp/t (11.9&nbsp;kW/t) at 75&nbsp;t
}}
| fuel_capacity      = {{convert|1592|L|impgal usgal}}<ref name="Janes143"/>
}}

The '''FV4034 Challenger 2''' (MoD designation "CR2") is a [[List of main battle tanks by generation#Third|third generation]] British [[main battle tank]] (MBT) in service with the armies of the [[British Army|United Kingdom]], [[Royal Army of Oman|Oman]], and [[Armed Forces of Ukraine|Ukraine]].<ref name="BritishArmy">{{Cite web |last=[[British Army]] |title=Combat Vehicles |url=https://www.army.mod.uk/equipment/combat-vehicles/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210324062935/https://www.army.mod.uk/equipment/combat-vehicles/ |archive-date=24 March 2021 |access-date=11 April 2021 |website=army.mod.uk }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Axe |first1=David |title=Ukraine's Challenger 2 Tanks Could Counterattack Around Bakhmut |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidaxe/2023/03/30/ukraines-challenger-2-tanks-could-counterattack-around-bakhmut/?sh=75f53d6c839b |access-date=2 April 2023 |work=Forbes |date=30 March 2023 }}</ref>

It was designed by [[Vickers Defence Systems]] (now Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL)) as a private venture in 1986, and was an extensive redesign of the company's earlier [[Challenger 1]] tank.<ref name="BAE">{{cite web |url=http://www.baesystems.com/ProductsServices/l_and_a_ls_challenger.html |title=Products & Services Challenger 2 |publisher=BAE Systems |date=14 February 2008 |access-date=16 January 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070621210618/http://www.baesystems.com/ProductsServices/l_and_a_ls_challenger.html |archive-date=21 June 2007 }}</ref> The [[Ministry of Defence (United Kingdom)|Ministry of Defence]] ordered a prototype in December 1988. 
The Challenger 2 has four crew members consisting of a commander, gunner, loader, and driver. The main armament is a [[Royal Ordnance L30|L30A1]] {{convert|120|mm|in|adj=on}} rifled tank gun, an improved derivative of the [[Royal Ordnance L11|L11 gun]] used on the [[Chieftain tank|Chieftain]] and [[Challenger 1]].<ref name="janes.com">{{cite web |url=http://www.janes.com/defence/land_forces/news/misc/jaa_challenger2_mbt.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040804224012/http://www.janes.com/defence/land_forces/news/misc/jaa_challenger2_mbt.shtml |title=Vickers Defence Systems Challenger 2 MBT |archive-date=4 August 2004}}</ref> Fifty rounds of ammunition are carried for the main armament, alongside 4,200 rounds of 7.62&nbsp;mm ammunition for the tank's secondary weapons: a [[L94A1]] EX-34 [[chain gun]] mounted coaxially, and a [[FN MAG|L37A2]] (GPMG) machine gun. The turret and hull are protected with second generation [[Chobham armour]], also known as Dorchester. Powered by a [[Perkins Engines|Perkins]] CV12-6A V12 diesel engine, the tank has a range of {{convert|550|km|mi}} and maximum road speed of {{convert|59|km/h|mph}}.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.army-technology.com/projects/challenger2/ |website=army-technology.com |title=Challenger 2 Main Battle Tank |access-date=24 December 2005 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051211173044/http://www.army-technology.com/projects/challenger2/ |archive-date=11 December 2005 |url-status=live}}</ref>

The Challenger 2 eventually completely replaced the [[Challenger 1]] in British service. In June 1991, the UK ordered 140 vehicles, followed by a further 268 in 1994; these were delivered between 1994 and 2002. The tank entered operational service with the British Army in 1998 and has since been used in [[NATO intervention in Bosnia and Herzegovina|Bosnia and Herzegovina]], [[Kosovo Force|Kosovo]] and [[Iraq War|Iraq]].<ref name="BritishArmy"/> To date, at least three Challenger 2 tanks are confirmed to have been destroyed in operations; the first was by accidental [[friendly fire]] from another Challenger 2 in [[#Basra 2003|Basra in 2003]],<ref>{{cite web |author1=Rory McCarthy |title=Friendly fire kills two UK tank crew |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2003/mar/26/iraq.rorymccarthy1 |website=[[The Guardian]] |date=26 March 2003 |access-date=21 May 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180522111212/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2003/mar/26/iraq.rorymccarthy1 |archive-date=22 May 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref> and the two others were during the [[Russo-Ukrainian War]], where the tanks were destroyed under Ukrainian control during the [[2023 Ukrainian counteroffensive]] and [[Ukrainian incursion into Kursk]]. Further Russian claims with supporting drone footage show FPV drone strikes on at least two other vehicles. The extent of damage to them is unknown as of the time of writing.{{NoteTag|Donated to Ukraine by the United Kingdom in early 2023}}<ref name="TELUKMBT">{{Cite news |last1=Barnes |first1=Joe |last2=Vasilyeva |first2=Nataliya |date=5 September 2023 |title=Watch: First British Challenger 2 tank destroyed in Ukraine advance  |work=The Telegraph |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2023/09/05/british-challenger-tank-destroyed-video-ukraine-robotyne/ |access-date=5 September 2023 |issn=0307-1235}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite news |last=Sabbagh |first=Dan |date=5 September 2023 |title=British Challenger 2 tank destroyed in combat for first time, Ukraine footage shows  |work=The Guardian |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/sep/05/british-challenger-2-tank-destroyed-in-combat-for-first-time-ukraine-footage-shows |access-date=5 September 2023 |issn=0261-3077}}</ref>

Challenger 2 tanks were also ordered by [[Oman]] in the 1990s with delivery of 38 vehicles being completed in 2001. A number of British Challenger 2 tanks were delivered to [[Ukraine]] in 2023.<ref name="Financial Times">{{cite news |last1=Pitel |first1=Laura |title=First German Leopard 2 tanks delivered to Ukraine |url=https://www.ft.com/content/2f3f301d-8de7-426a-94fa-8bb398ffe232 |access-date=27 March 2023 |work=Financial Times |date=27 March 2023}}</ref>

Since the Challenger 2 entered service in 1998, various upgrades have sought to improve its protection, mobility and lethality. This has culminated in an upgraded design, known as [[Challenger 3]], which is set to gradually replace Challenger 2 from 2027.<ref name="DIACA">{{cite book |date=March 2021 |title=Defence in a Competitive Age |page=54 |url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/971859/_CP_411__-_Defence_in_a_competitive_age.pdf |issue=CP 411 |access-date=22 March 2021 |publisher=HM Stationery Office |isbn=978-1-5286-2462-6 |last=Wallace |first=Ben}}</ref>

== History ==
===Challenger 1===
The Challenger 2 is the third vehicle of this name, the first being the [[Cruiser Mk VIII Challenger|A30 Challenger]], a [[World War II]] design using the [[Cromwell tank]] chassis with a [[17-pounder]] gun. The second was the Persian [[Gulf War]] era [[Challenger 1]], which was the British army's main battle tank (MBT) from the early 1980s to the mid-1990s.{{cn|date=August 2024}}

While the British [[Chieftain (tank)|Chieftain]] was heavily armed and armoured, its engine and suspension were considerably subpar compared to its contemporaries, leading to poor cross-country performance and a lack of maneuverability.{{cn|date=August 2024}}

Some work on further development of the Chieftain had been ongoing since 1968 at the [[Military Vehicles and Engineering Establishment]] (MVEE), and several experimental vehicles produced, including one with the recently developed [[Chobham armour]]. In September 1978, it was announced that these concepts would be brought together in a new design, [[MBT-80]]. Deliveries of the MBT-80 were not expected until the mid-1980s at a minimum. Advances in Soviet armor, especially the apparent upcoming introduction of the [[T-80]], suggested that the UK's tanks would be at a significant disadvantage before the MBT-80 would arrive. After considerable debate, MBT-80 was cancelled.{{cn|date=August 2024}}{{why|date=August 2024}} Instead, in 1978, the British Army ordered the Challenger 1, based on the [[Shir 2]]. The final Challenger 1 was delivered to the British Army in 1990.<ref>{{cite book |editor1-last=Foss |editor1-first=Christopher F. |editor1-link=Christopher F. Foss |title=Jane's Armour and Artillery 2011–2012 |publisher=[[Accuris|IHS Global]] |location=Surrey |year=2011 |isbn=978-0-71062-960-9 |edition=32nd |page=165 |url=https://archive.org/details/janesarmourartil0000unse |url-access=registration}}</ref>

===Challenger 2 contest===
As Challenger production ramped up the government was interested in marketing it to its traditional customers like [[Jordan]]. To improve its sales prospects, the tank was entered in the 1987 running of the [[Canadian Army Trophy]] for tank performance, which had historically been won many times by [[British Army]] or [[Canadian Army]] units in British tanks. In this run, however, the Challenger performed very poorly, with its units ending up at the bottom of the rankings. While this performance was dismissed by the Ministry of Defense, including in comments in the [[House of Commons]], it was a serious blow to its sales prospects. It also proved only marginally more reliable than the Chieftain, which was considered unreliable and a maintenance problem in the field, and the lack of significant improvement was much to the annoyance of the [[British Army]].<ref name=wrong/>

Vickers began considering improvements under the Improved Challenger name in November 1986. They presented their work to the [[Ministry of Defence (United Kingdom)|Ministry of Defence]] (MoD) in March 1987. In February 1988, the MoD issued Staff Requirement 4026, or the Chieftain Replacement Programme, which called for a new design to replace those Chieftains still in service. This program compared the American Abrams (as the XM1 was now known), French [[Leclerc tank|Leclerc]] and German [[Leopard 2]], as well as Vickers's Improved Challenger. Initial studies by the [[British Army]] invariably selected the Leopard 2, which was protected as well as Challenger but had much better mobility and used the smoothbore 120&nbsp;mm gun that would give it commonality with other [[NATO]] forces. The second choice was the Abrams, in second due largely to concerns with its fuel use.<ref name=wrong>{{cite web |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/challenger-2-the-wrong-tank-for-the-british-army/ |title=Challenger 2, the wrong tank for the British Army? |first=Stuart |last=Crawford |date=23 August 2018}}</ref>

After some supportive lobbying by [[David Young, Baron Young of Graffham|Baron Young]], the [[Third Thatcher ministry|Thatcher government]] chose to proceed with the Vickers entry in December 1988, giving it the official name Challenger 2.<ref name="Abrams evaluation">{{cite news |last=Lohr |first=Steve |date=20 December 1988 |title=Thatcher Picks British Tank Over Rival American Model |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1988/12/21/business/thatcher-picks-british-tank-over-rival-american-model.html |access-date=26 August 2018 |work=The New York Times |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180826080812/https://www.nytimes.com/1988/12/21/business/thatcher-picks-british-tank-over-rival-american-model.html |archive-date=26 August 2018}}</ref>

===Prototypes===
Vickers received a £90&nbsp;million contract for a demonstrator vehicle to be delivered by September 1990. Part of this proof-of-concept phase was the demonstration that a [[depleted uranium]] projectile and more powerful gunpowder charge could be developed for the updated "CHARM" 120&nbsp;mm gun developed at Royal Ordinance, which would give it capability against the latest Soviet designs.<ref name="Simon Dunstan page 5">{{cite book |last1=Dunstan |first1=Simon |last2=Bryan |first2=Tony |title=Challenger 2 Main Battle Tank 1987–2006 |page=5}}</ref><ref name="Abrams evaluation"/> The demonstration phase had three milestones for progress, with dates of September 1989, March 1990, and September 1990. At the last of these milestones, Vickers was to have met 11 key criteria for the tank's design.<ref name="Simon Dunstan page 5"/>

The demonstration phase was generally successful; the major design was completed by August 1989, and production of a series of nine prototypes began. These were largely complete August 1990, and the program as a whole considered successfully completed on time in September. By this point, the [[Gulf War]] had started and Challenger 1 was sent to [[Iraq]], where it performed far better than its initial showing would suggest, including performing several very long range kills against Iraqi armor, including one at over {{convert|5|km}} range. This performance bolstered the MoD's confidence in British armour.<ref name="leclerc"/>

===Production and delivery===
In June 1991 the decision to buy Challenger 2 was made formal with a £520&nbsp;million contract for 127 tanks and 13 driver training tanks.<ref name="leclerc">{{cite news |title=Company News; Britain Selects Tank Produced By Vickers |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1991/06/22/business/company-news-britain-selects-tank-produced-by-vickers.html |access-date=11 November 2021 |newspaper=The New York Times |agency=Reuters |date=22 June 1991}}</ref> Production began in 1993 at two primary sites ([[Elswick, Tyne and Wear]]; and [[Barnbow]], [[Leeds]]) with over 250 subcontractors involved. It was formally accepted on 16 May 1994 with the first tanks delivered in July 1994. An order for a further 259 tanks and 9 driver trainers worth £800&nbsp;million was placed in July. The Challenger 2 failed its acceptance trials in 1994, and it was forced into the Progressive Reliability Growth Trial in 1995. Three vehicles were tested for 285 simulated battlefield days.

Due to downsizing of the Army after the end of the [[Cold War]], the two runs of Challenger 2 would result in enough tanks to arm the entire Army, as opposed to the mixture of Challenger 1 and 2 that was formerly planned. This made the Challenger 1 surplus, and these were eventually shipped to Jordan for free. Vickers struggled to market the tank for export.<ref>{{cite news |last=Gow |first=David |title=Vickers and French form tank alliance |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/260071674/?terms=leclerc%20challenger%202&match=1 |access-date=11 November 2021 |work=The Guardian |date=12 January 1999}}</ref> Its one success led to Oman ordering 38 Challenger 2s; 18 in June 1993<ref name="Oman 1993">{{cite news |last1=Beavis |first1=Simon |title=Oman orders Vickers Tank |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/260345870/?terms=challenger%202%20oman&match=1 |access-date=11 November 2021 |work=The Guardian |date=23 June 1993}}</ref> and a further 20 in November 1997.<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Harrison |first1=Michael |last2=Godsmark |first2=Chris |date=1997-11-10 |title=Car makers in the frame fo battle for the control of Rolls-Royce |url=https://wikipedialibrary.wmflabs.org/ |access-date=2024-06-08 |website=The Independent |publisher=newspapers.com |page=18}}</ref> Both batches ordered by Oman contain notable differences from the UK version: a larger cooling group and rear [[towing eyes]], running gear and bazooka plates similar to Challenger 1, and a loader's [[M2 Browning|Browning 0.5 Calibre M2 Heavy Machine Gun]]. Deliveries of Challenger 2 to Oman were completed in 2001.

[[File:Challenger2-Bergen-Hohne-Training-Area-2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.2|A Challenger 2 Tank of the [[Royal Scots Dragoon Guards]] (Squadron D) during live fire training exercises on [[Bergen-Hohne Training Area]] (Germany)]]
The tank was then accepted into service in 1998. An equally important milestone was the In-Service Reliability Demonstration (ISRD) in 1998. The CR2 In-Service Reliability Demonstration (ISRD) milestone was successfully achieved in January 1999. The ISRD took place from September to December 1998. Twelve fully crewed tanks were tested at the [[Bovington]] test tracks and the [[Lulworth]] Bindon ranges. The tank exceeded all staff requirements.

===Later developments and possible replacement===
The Challenger 2 entered service with the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards, with the last delivered in 2002. After the [[Army 2020]] restructuring, only three Challenger 2 Tank Regiments will remain: the [[Queen's Royal Hussars]], the King's Royal Hussars and the [[Royal Tank Regiment]], each of which is the tank regiment of an Armoured Infantry Brigade. A single [[Army Reserve (United Kingdom)|Army Reserve]] regiment, [[The Royal Wessex Yeomanry]], will provide reservist Challenger crews to the regular regiments.

The Trojan minefield breaching vehicle and the Titan bridge-laying vehicle based on the chassis of the Challenger 2 were shown in November 2006. Sixty-six are to be supplied by BAE Systems to the [[Royal Engineers]], at a cost of £250&nbsp;million.<ref>[http://www.armedforces.co.uk/projects/raq3f54d8aee2e57 Trojan and Titan Armoured Engineer Vehicles] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304002301/http://www.armedforces.co.uk/projects/raq3f54d8aee2e57 |date=4 March 2016}} armedforces.co.uk</ref>

A British military document from 2001 indicated that the British Army would not procure a replacement for the Challenger 2 because of a lack of foreseeable conventional threats in the future.<ref name="Challenger 2 last">{{cite book |title=Gender, War, and Militarism: Feminist Perspectives |year=2010 |publisher=ABC-CLIO |isbn=978-0-313-39143-9 |page=40 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=om3yy1JoS34C&q=%22Main+battle+tank%22 |author1=Laura Sjoberg |author2=Sandra Via |author3=Cynthia Enloe |access-date=3 July 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140101183946/http://books.google.com/books?id=om3yy1JoS34C&vq=isbn&dq=%22Main+battle+tank%22&source=gbs_navlinks_s |archive-date=1 January 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref> However, [[IHS Jane's 360]] reported in September 2015 that following discussions with senior Army officers and procurement officials at DSEI 2015 and the head of the British Army, [[Nick Carter (British Army officer)|General Sir Nick Carter]], that the British Army was looking at either upgrading the Challenger 2 or outright replacing it. Sources confirmed that the future of the MBT was being considered at the highest levels of the Army.<ref name="janes">{{cite web |url=http://www.janes.com/article/54672/dsei-2015-british-army-considers-new-mbt-in-response-to-russia-s-armata |title=Janes &#124; Latest defence and security news |access-date=21 September 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160501233926/http://www.janes.com/article/54672/dsei-2015-british-army-considers-new-mbt-in-response-to-russia-s-armata |archive-date=1 May 2016}}</ref>

This stemmed from the British Army's concern with the new Russian [[T-14 Armata]] main battle tank and the growing ineffectiveness of the ageing L30 rifled gun and the limited types of ammunition supported. It was confirmed that numerous armoured vehicle manufacturers had discussions with the MoD about a potential replacement for the Challenger 2.<ref name="janes"/> Shortly after, the British Army decided that purchasing a new tank would be too expensive and chose to proceed with the Challenger 2 Life Extension Project (LEP).<ref>[http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/land/vehicles/2015/10/11/uk-army-extend-life-challenger-2-new-tank-too-costly/73410010/ UK Army To Extend Life of Challenger 2; New Tank Too Costly ]{{dead link|date=November 2016 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes}} - Defensenews.com, 11 October 2015</ref> The Challenger 2 is expected to remain in service until 2025.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gizmag.com/bae-systems-britain-main-ballte-tank/43713/ |title=BAE Systems bid provides glimpse into the future of Britain's battle tanks |work=Gizmag |author=David Szondy |date=7 June 2016 |access-date=8 June 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160609114830/http://www.gizmag.com/bae-systems-britain-main-ballte-tank/43713/ |archive-date=9 June 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref>

Between 2010 and 2014, 43 Challenger 2 tanks were disposed of as "beyond any economic repair".<ref name=times-20230730>{{cite news |url=https://www.thetimes.com/article/mod-destroyed-challenger-tanks-that-could-have-gone-to-ukraine-hklr9wpv6 |title=MoD destroyed Challenger tanks that could have gone to Ukraine |last=Greenwood |first=George |newspaper=[[The Times]] |location=London |url-access=subscription |date=30 July 2023 |access-date=18 August 2023}}</ref>

The maintenance contract [[Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land#Challenger 2 Life Extension Project (C2 LEP)|was let sometime in 2021]].
{{As of|2022}} maintenance and overhaul of the Challenger 2 is undertaken by the [[Babcock Defence Support Group]]. Design authority for the tank is held by [[Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land]] (RBSL). Engineering work is to be completed by RBSL and integration work by Babcock.<ref name=amu/> This complicated two-part project is [[#Upgrades|detailed below]]. The initial operating capability for the upgraded [[Challenger 3]] tanks is expected by 2027.<ref name=dnci/>

In May 2021, the UK MoD published a [[command paper]] entitled ''[[Defence in a Competitive Age]]''. In it, the MoD proposed to retire 79 tanks from the current fleet of 227, with the remaining 148 vehicles upgraded to Challenger 3 status.<ref>{{cite book |date=March 2021 |title=Defence in a Competitive Age |url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/971859/_CP_411__-_Defence_in_a_competitive_age.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 March 2021 |publisher=Ministry of Defence |isbn=978-1-5286-2462-6 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210322183107/https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/971859/_CP_411__-_Defence_in_a_competitive_age.pdf |archive-date=22 March 2021}}</ref>

===Supply to Ukraine===
After the [[Russian invasion of Ukraine]] in 2022, the then British Prime Minister, [[Boris Johnson]], declined Ukrainian requests for Challenger 2 tanks to be part of the military aid packages arranged by the United Kingdom and other NATO countries. British [[Secretary of State for Defence|Defence Secretary]] [[Ben Wallace (politician)|Ben Wallace]] had said that the idea "wouldn't work".<ref name="eatb">{{cite news |title=British Tanks To Fight Russia? UK Defense Secretary Says Giving Tanks To Ukraine 'Wouldn't Work' |url=https://eurasiantimes.com/british-tanks-to-fight-russia-uk-says-giving-tanks-to-ukraine/ |publisher=The EurAsian Times |date=27 March 2022}}</ref> In April 2022, Johnson and his German counterpart [[Olaf Scholz]] stated that both Western European allies would withhold their MBTs from the war. Johnson instead chose to deploy British Challenger 2 tanks to Poland to backfill the Polish Army and allowing the Polish government to donate Soviet-era [[T-72]]s to Ukraine.<ref name="pcg">{{cite news |last1=GALLARDO |first1=CRISTINA |title=UK and Germany won't send tanks to Ukraine |url=https://www.politico.eu/article/uk-germany-rule-out-send-tanks-ukraine/ |work=Politico |date=8 April 2022}}</ref><ref name="dmbg">{{cite news |last1=Glaze |first1=Ben |title=Tories plan to scrap Army tanks despite sending some to Poland after Ukraine invasion |url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/politics/tories-plan-scrap-army-tanks-27003396 |work=Daily Mirror |publisher=Reach plc |date=18 May 2022}}</ref>

On 14 January 2023, the British government confirmed reports that in light of the developing situation in Ukraine, it had reversed its position on the supply of Challenger 2 tanks to Ukraine. An initial commitment of 14 vehicles was announced, alongside 30 [[AS-90]] 155&nbsp;mm self-propelled guns, and armoured repair and recovery vehicles. A spokesperson for the British Prime Minister, [[Rishi Sunak]], described the move as reflecting "the UK's ambition to intensify support". These tanks were the first Western MBTs offered to Ukraine, supplementing donations of Western manufactured infantry fighting vehicles, armoured personnel carriers, and self-propelled artillery;<ref>{{Cite web |title=UK Is Considering Sending Battle Tanks to Ukraine, Officials Say |first1=Alex |last1=Wickham |first2=Daryna |last2=Krasnolutska |date=9 January 2023 |access-date=9 January 2023 |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-01-09/uk-considering-sending-battle-tanks-to-ukraine-officials-say |website=bloomberg.com |language=en-AU}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Sabbagh |first1=Dan |title=UK considers supplying handful of Challenger 2 tanks to Ukraine |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jan/09/uk-considers-supplying-handful-of-challenger-2-tanks-to-ukraine-war-russia |work=The Guardian |access-date=9 January 2023 |date=9 January 2023}}</ref><ref name="bbc.co.uk">{{cite news |last1=Beale |first1=Jonathan |last2=Andersson |first2=Jasmine |title=UK to send Challenger 2 tanks to Ukraine, Rishi Sunak confirms |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-64274755 |access-date=15 January 2023 |work=BBC News |date=15 January 2023}}</ref> A number of other countries have subsequently announced that they would supply Ukraine with Western-manufactured MBTs; specifically the American [[M1 Abrams]] and German-made [[Leopard 1]] and [[Leopard 2]].<ref>{{Cite news |title=What makes Germany's Leopard 2 tank the best fit for Ukraine? |newspaper=The Economist |url=https://www.economist.com/the-economist-explains/2023/01/25/what-makes-germanys-leopard-2-tank-the-best-fit-for-ukraine |access-date=26 January 2023 |issn=0013-0613}}</ref>

On 29 January 2023, the UK Ministry of Defence announced that the first Ukrainian troops had arrived in the UK to begin training on Challenger 2.<ref name="BFBS">{{cite news |title=Ukrainians arrive in UK to begin training on British Challenger 2 tanks |url=https://www.forces.net/ukraine/ukrainians-arrive-uk-begin-training-british-challenger-2-tanks |access-date=30 January 2023 |work=Forces News}}</ref> On 8 February, Sunak and Ukrainian President [[Volodymyr Zelenskyy]] paid a visit to Ukrainian soldiers at [[Lulworth Camp]] where they were being trained on Challenger 2 tanks by British soldiers from the [[Royal Tank Regiment]] and the [[Queen's Royal Hussars]]. Sunak used the opportunity to reaffirm the British intention to have the first Challenger 2 tanks delivered to Ukraine by March 2023.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Mitchell |first1=Ben |title=Sunak and Zelensky meet Ukrainian soldiers training on tanks at Dorset camp |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/volodymyr-zelensky-dorset-one-british-army-challenger-b2278461.html |access-date=13 February 2023 |work=The Independent |date=8 February 2023 }}</ref>

On 27 March 2023, the UK Ministry of Defence announced that Ukrainian tank crews had completed their training in the UK on Challenger 2 tanks, and had returned to Ukraine.<ref>{{cite web |title=Ukrainian tank crews complete Challenger 2 training in UK |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/ukrainian-tank-crews-complete-challenger-2-training-in-uk |website=GOV.UK |access-date=27 March 2023 |date=27 March 2023}}</ref>

On 18 August 2023 a picture of a Challenger 2 in Ukraine was released on Twitter. Unique modifications include top-mounted [[slat armour]] believed to be used to stop drone attacks.<ref>{{cite news |first1=Danielle |last1=Sheridan| first2=Nataliya| last2=Vasilyeva |title=Ukraine modifies British Challenger 2 tanks to protect them from Russian drones |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2023/08/16/ukraine-british-challenger-2-tank-modified-russian-drones/|access-date=27 March 2023 |work=Financial Times |date=18 August 2023}}</ref>

On 4 September 2023, a video emerged from [[Robotyne]] which showed the first combat loss of the Challenger 2 tank.<ref name="TELUKMBT"/><ref name= "destroyedchallenger">{{cite web |title=First U.K.-Delivered, Ukrainian Challenger II Tank Confirmed Destroyed Near Robotyne | work = The Atlas news |url= https://theatlasnews.co/conflict/2023/09/04/first-u-k-delivered-ukrainian-challenger-ii-tank-confirmed-destroyed-near-robotyne/ |access-date= 4 September 2023 |date=4 September 2023}}</ref>

During the [[Ukrainian incursion into Kursk]], three more Challenger 2 tanks were visually confirmed to have been damaged with at least one vehicle destroyed.<ref name="auto4">{{Cite web|url=https://www.forcesnews.com/ukraine/russian-claims-drone-destroyed-challenger-2-tank-during-ukraines-kursk-counter-offensive|title=Ukrainian Challenger 2 purportedly hit by drone during counter-offensive in Kursk|date=6 January 2025|website=www.forcesnews.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidaxe/2024/08/16/ex-british-challenger-2-tanks-roll-into-kursk-as-ukraines-invasion-of-russia-grinds-into-its-11th-day/|title=Ex-British Challenger 2 Tanks Roll Into Kursk As Ukraine's Invasion of Russia Grinds Into Its 11th Day|first=David|last=Axe|website=Forbes}}</ref>

== Design ==
=== Armament ===
[[File:Challenger 2 Tank Firing a Shell MOD 45157421.jpg|thumb|A Challenger 2 firing its main armament during an exercise. The shell is visible to the left of the smoke cloud.]]
[[File:Challenger 2 main battle tank.jpg|thumb|Close-up of muzzle showing rifling]]
[[File:Challenger 2 Tank Firing at BATUS MOD 45157782.jpg|thumb|A row of Challenger 2 tanks on a firing range at [[British Army Training Unit Suffield|BATUS]], Canada]]

The Challenger 2 is equipped with a {{convert|120|mm|in|adj=on}} 55-[[caliber (artillery)|calibre]] long [[Royal Ordnance L30|L30A1]] tank gun,<ref name="janes.com"/> the successor to the L11 gun used on [[Chieftain tank|Chieftain]] and Challenger 1. The gun is made from high strength [[electro-slag remelting]] (ESR) steel with a chromium alloy lining. Like earlier British 120&nbsp;mm guns, it is insulated by a [[thermal sleeve]]. It is fitted with a muzzle reference system and [[fume extractor]], and is controlled by an all-electric control and stabilisation system. The turret has a rotation time of 9 seconds through 360 degrees.

Uniquely among [[NATO]] main battle tank guns, the L30A1 is [[rifled]] and along with its predecessor, the [[Royal Ordnance L11A5]], the only Third Generation Main Battle Tank Guns to use a rifled barrel. This is because the British Army continues to place a premium on the use of [[high explosive squash head]] (HESH) rounds in addition to [[armour-piercing fin-stabilized discarding-sabot]] (APFSDS) rounds. HESH rounds have a longer range (up to {{convert|8|km|mi|0|disp=or}} further) than APFSDS, and are more effective against buildings and thin-skinned vehicles.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Kaplan |first1=Philip |title=Rolling Thunder: A Century of tank Warfare |date=2013 |publisher=Pen and Sword |page=161}}</ref>

Forty-nine main armament rounds are carried in the turret and hull. These are a mix of L27A1 APFSDS (also referred to as CHARM 3), L31 HESH and L34 [[white phosphorus]] smoke rounds, depending on the situation. As with earlier versions of the 120&nbsp;mm gun, the propellant charges are loaded separately from the shell or KE projectile. A combustible rigid charge is used for the APFSDS rounds and a combustible hemicylindrical bag charge for the HESH and smoke rounds. An electrically fired vent tube is used to initiate firing of the main armament rounds. The main armament ammunition is described to be "three-part ammunition", consisting of the projectile, charge and vent tube. The separation of ammunition pieces aids in ensuring lower chances of unfired [[cooking off|ammunition detonating prematurely]].

The Challenger 2 is also armed with a [[L94A1]] EX-34 7.62&nbsp;mm [[chain gun]] coaxially to the left of the main gun, and a 7.62&nbsp;mm [[L7 (machine gun)|L37A2]] (GPMG) machine gun mounted on a pintle on the loader's hatch ring; 4,200 rounds of 7.62&nbsp;mm ammunition are carried. The Challenger can also mount a Leonardo "Enforcer" [[Remote controlled weapon station|remote control weapons system]], bearing a 7.62&nbsp;mm [[L7 (machine gun)|L37A2]] (GPMG) machine gun, a 12.7&nbsp;mm heavy machine gun or a 40&nbsp;mm automatic grenade launcher.<ref>{{cite web |title=Enforcer Remote Control Weapons System Data Sheet |url=http://www.leonardocompany.com/documents/63265270/66465238/mm08109_Enforcer_RWS_LQ_.pdf |website=Leonardo Company |access-date=28 February 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180301044344/http://www.leonardocompany.com/documents/63265270/66465238/mm08109_Enforcer_RWS_LQ_.pdf |archive-date=1 March 2018 }}</ref>

=== Fire control and sights ===
[[File:Challenger 2 Tankfest 2009.jpg|thumb|A close up view of a Challenger 2]]

The digital fire control computer from [[General Dynamics|Computing Devices Co]] of Canada contains two 32-bit processors with a MIL STD1553B databus. It has capacity for additional systems, such as a Battlefield Information Control System.

The commander has a panoramic [[SAGEM]] VS 580-10 [[gyroscope|gyrostabilised]] sight with [[laser rangefinder]]. The elevation range is +35° to −35°. The commander's station is equipped with eight [[periscope]]s for 360° vision.

The Thermal Observation and Gunnery Sight II (TOGS II), from [[Thales Group|Thales]], provides [[night vision]]. The thermal image is displayed on both the gunner's and commander's sights and monitors. The gunner has a stabilised primary sight using a laser rangefinder, with a range of {{convert|200|m|abbr=on}} to {{convert|10|km|abbr=on}}. The driver's position is equipped with a Thales Optronics image-intensifying Passive Driving Periscope (PDP) for night driving and a rear view [[thermal imaging|thermal camera]].

=== Protection ===
[[File:Challenger Main Battle Tank with Improved Armour MOD 45149015.jpg|thumb|right|Challenger 2 with armour upgrades to the sides of the turret, skirts, bar armour to rear. Smoke grenade launchers visible on turret front. [[Counter-IED equipment|Counter-IED]] ECM antennas are on the platform on the turret, and additional [[electronic countermeasure|ECM]] equipment overhangs the left and right front fenders. A remote controlled weapon systems (RCWS) has also been fitted to the turret.]]

The Challenger 2 is a heavily armoured and well protected tank.<ref name="Fprado">{{cite web |url=http://www.fprado.com/armorsite/chall2.htm |title=Main Battle Tank: Challenger 2 |publisher=Fprado.com |access-date=16 January 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070522041934/http://www.fprado.com/armorsite/chall2.htm |archive-date=22 May 2007 |url-status=live}}</ref> The turret and hull are protected by second-generation [[Chobham armour]], also known as Dorchester, the details of which are classified but which is said to have a mass efficiency more than twice that of [[rolled homogeneous armour]] against [[high-explosive anti-tank]] (HEAT) projectiles. Crew safety was paramount in the design. It uses a [[Solid-state electronics|solid state electric drive]] for turret and gun motion, instead of hydraulic systems that can leak fluid into the crew compartment.

[[Explosive reactive armour]] kits and additional [[bar armour]] may be fitted as needed. The nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) protection system is located in the turret bustle. The tank's shape is designed to minimise its radar signature. On each side of the turret are five L8 [[smoke grenade]] dischargers. The Challenger 2 can create smoke by injecting diesel fuel into the exhaust manifolds.

=== Drive system ===
[[File:The King's Royal Hussars take on Bavarian Challenge during Exercise COMBINED RESOLVE APOG-OFFICIAL-20240604-006-136.jpg|thumb|[[Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers|REME]] mechanic performing field maintenance on the power pack of a [[King's Royal Hussars]] Challenger 2.]]

The tank's drive system comprises:
* Engine: [[Perkins Engines|Perkins]] 26.1&nbsp;litre, 60° vee, twin turbocharged, CV12-6A four-stroke, four-valve-per-cylinder (pushrod), direct-injection [[diesel engine]] delivering {{convert|1200|bhp|kW|abbr=on}} at 2300&nbsp;rpm. Torque 4126&nbsp;Nm at 1700&nbsp;rpm.<ref>https://www.thefreelibrary.com/building challenger 2.-a09038700</ref> The engine and gearbox are controlled by a Petards Vehicle Integrated Control System (VICS).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.petards.com/our-solutions/defence-services/control-systems |title=Control Systems |publisher=Petards Group |access-date=10 March 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180313031444/http://www.petards.com/our-solutions/defence-services/control-systems/ |archive-date=13 March 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref>
* Gearbox: [[David Brown Limited|David Brown]] Santasalo TN54E epicyclical transmission (6 fwd, 2 rev.) rated at 1200&nbsp;bhp and upgradable to 1500&nbsp;bhp.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://dbsantasalo.com/industries/defence/land-defence/tn54-tracked-vehicle-transmission/ |title=TN54E Tracked Vehicle Transmission |access-date=19 February 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180220033059/https://dbsantasalo.com/industries/defence/land-defence/tn54-tracked-vehicle-transmission/ |archive-date=20 February 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref>
* Suspension: Horstman Defence Systems second-generation [[Hydropneumatic suspension|hydrogas]] suspension units (HSU).
* Track: William Cook Defence hydraulically adjustable TR60 414FS double-pin.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.william-cook.co.uk/gb/news/cook-defence-systems-is-track-supplier-of-choice-at-dsei-2019 |title=Cook Defence Systems is track supplier of choice at DSEI 2019 |publisher=William Cook |date=10 September 2019 |access-date=7 January 2020}}</ref>
* Maximum speed: {{convert|37|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} on road; {{convert|25|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} cross country
* Range: {{convert|342|mi|km|abbr=on|disp=or}} on road with external fuel; {{convert|156|mi|km|-1|abbr=on}} cross country on internal fuel.

The tank is fitted with an Extel Systems Wedel auxiliary power unit, an APU, also referred to as a generating unit engine (GUE), based on a 38&nbsp;kW Perkins P404C-22 diesel engine. It has a 600&nbsp;A electrical output, which can be used to power the vehicle's electrical systems when it is stationary and the main engine is switched off. This replaces the Perkins P4.108 engine fitted when the tank was first introduced.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://ted.europa.eu/udl?uri=TED:NOTICE:411049-2016:TEXT:EN:HTML&src=0 |title=Repair of Challenger 2 ESW APU |publisher=Official Journal of the EU |date=22 November 2016 |access-date=8 March 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180310010421/http://ted.europa.eu/udl?uri=TED:NOTICE:411049-2016:TEXT:EN:HTML&src=0 |archive-date=10 March 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref> The use of an APU allows fuel consumption to be reduced, and lowers the audio and thermal signature of the vehicle.

By 2013 the British Army had, at various events featuring the Challenger 2, begun to state the on-road range as 550&nbsp;km as opposed to an earlier stated value of 450&nbsp;km.<ref name="youtube.com"/> They also publicly stated a maximum road speed of 59&nbsp;km/h while equipped with 15&nbsp;tons of additional modules.<ref name="youtube.com"/>

=== Crew and accommodation ===
The British Army maintained its requirement for a four-man crew, including a loader, after risk analysis of the incorporation of an [[autoloader|automatic loader]] suggested that autoloaders reduced battlefield survivability. Mechanical failure and the time required for repair were prime concerns.

Similar to every British tank since the [[Centurion tank|Centurion]], and most other British AFVs, Challenger 2 contains a [[boiling vessel]] (BV) for water, for use preparing and heating food and drink.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.theguardian.com/world/2003/apr/07/iraq.military |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071017155330/http://www.guardian.co.uk/Iraq/Story/0%2C%2C931139%2C00.html |title=A brew brings coalition forces closer together |date=7 April 2003 |archive-date=17 October 2007 |website=The Guardian}}</ref>

== Operational history ==
{{Blockquote|quote=[The tank was] well armoured but in an operational theatre it's not the case that you can have absolute protection. This was not in any way new technology&nbsp;– the device involved was the same type of shaped charge that we have seen used very regularly. No one has ever said Challenger tanks are impenetrable. We have always said that a big enough bomb will defeat any armour and any vehicle.|source=<small>MoD spokesman, speaking in regard to the Challenger 2</small><ref>{{cite news |title=Iraq bombing damages British tank | work = BBC News |url= http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/middle_east/6583607.stm |date=23 April 2007 |access-date=23 April 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070424034103/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/middle_east/6583607.stm |archive-date=24 April 2007 |url-status=live}}</ref>}}
[[File:Kosovo Battle Group Deploys. 05-09-2000. MOD 45137687.jpg|thumb|Challenger 2 tanks deployed in Kosovo, September 2000]]

=== Peacekeeping in the Balkans ===
The first operational deployments of Challenger 2 tanks were to support [[United Nations Mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina|peacekeeping operations in Bosnia and Herzegovina]] and [[Kosovo]].{{cn|date=August 2024}}

=== Iraq War===
Challenger 2 was first used in combat in March 2003 during the [[invasion of Iraq]]. The 120 tanks of [[7th Armoured Brigade (United Kingdom)|7th Armoured Brigade]], part of [[1st (United Kingdom) Division|1st Armoured Division]], went into action around [[Basra]]. The type saw extensive use during the siege of the city, providing fire support to the British forces and knocking out Iraqi tanks, mainly [[T-54/55]]s.{{cn|date=August 2024}}

The tanks deployed to Iraq were "desertised" in an effort to avoid the difficulties that had been identified in Challenger 2 during [[Saif Sareea II|Exercise Saif Sareea II]] in [[Oman]] 18 months earlier. The addition of sand filters and other modifications through a series of Urgent Operational Requirements substantially improved the platform's [[operational availability]].{{cn|date=August 2024}}

[[File:Challenger 2 at speed, Oman, 25-09-2001. MOD 45140649.jpg|thumb|Challenger 2 in Oman during [[Saif Sareea II|Exercise Saif Sareea II]] in September 2001]]

[[File:A Challenger 2 crosses into Iraq. 21-03-2003 MOD 45142823.jpg|thumb|A Challenger 2 in Iraq, 2003]]
During the [[2003 invasion of Iraq]], the Challenger 2 tanks suffered no tank losses to Iraqi fire. In one encounter within an urban area, a Challenger 2 came under attack from irregular forces with machine guns and [[rocket propelled grenade]]s (RPGs). The driver's sight was damaged and while attempting to back away under the commander's directions, the other sights were damaged and the tank threw its tracks entering a ditch.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/2908679.stm |title=Dragoon guards survive ambush |publisher=BBC News |date=2 April 2003 |access-date= 16 January 2011 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110417191537/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/2908679.stm |archive-date=17 April 2011 |url-status= live}}</ref> The crew survived, safe within the tank until it was recovered for repairs, the worst damage being to the sighting system. It was back in operation six hours later.{{cn|date=August 2024}}
* {{anchor|Basra 2003}}25 March 2003: A [[friendly fire]] ("blue-on-blue") incident in Basra in which one Challenger 2 of the Black Watch Battlegroup ([[2nd Royal Tank Regiment]]) mistakenly engaged another Challenger 2 of the [[Queen's Royal Lancers]] after detecting what was believed to be an enemy flanking manoeuvre on thermal equipment. The attacking tank's second HESH round hit the open commander's hatch lid of the QRL tank sending hot fragments into the turret, killing two crew members. The hit caused a fire that eventually ignited the stowed ammunition, destroying the tank. This was the first Challenger 2 to be destroyed on operations.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.mod.uk/NR/rdonlyres/C2384518-7EBA-4CFF-B127-E87871E41B51/0/boi_challenger2_25mar03.pdf |title= UK Ministry of Defence: Army Board of Inquiry Report |access-date= 16 January 2011 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110608011154/http://www.mod.uk/NR/rdonlyres/C2384518-7EBA-4CFF-B127-E87871E41B51/0/boi_challenger2_25mar03.pdf |archive-date=8 June 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |author1=Rory McCarthy |title=Friendly fire kills two UK tank crew |url= https://www.theguardian.com/world/2003/mar/26/iraq.rorymccarthy1 |website= [[The Guardian]] |date=26 March 2003 |access-date=21 May 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180522111212/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2003/mar/26/iraq.rorymccarthy1 |archive-date=22 May 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref>
* August 2006: An RPG-29 capable of firing a [[tandem-charge]] penetrated the frontal lower underbelly armour of a Challenger 2 commanded by Captain Thomas Williams of The Queens's Royal Hussars south east of [[al-Amarah]], southern Iraq. Its driver, Trooper Sean Chance, lost part of his foot in the blast; two more of the crew were slightly injured. Chance was able to reverse the vehicle {{convert|1.5|mi|km|abbr=on}} to the regimental aid post despite his injuries.<ref>{{cite web |first=Sean |last=Rayment |url= https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/1551418/MoD-kept-failure-of-best-tank-quiet.html |work=The Daily Telegraph |title=MoD kept failure of best tank quiet |date=12 May 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200803190029/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/1551418/MoD-kept-failure-of-best-tank-quiet.html |archive-date=3 August 2020 }}</ref> The incident was not made public until May 2007; in response to accusations that crews had been told the tank was impervious to the insurgents' weapons, the MoD said "We have never claimed that the Challenger 2 is impenetrable."<ref name= telegraph1551418>{{cite news |url= https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/1551418/MoD-kept-failure-of-best-tank-quiet.html |title=MoD kept failure of best tank quiet |work=[[The Daily Telegraph]] |first=Sean |last= Rayment |date=13 May 2007 |access-date= 12 May 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150704200640/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/1551418/MoD-kept-failure-of-best-tank-quiet.html |archive-date=4 July 2015 |url-status= live}}</ref>
* 6 April 2007: In Basra, Iraq, a [[shaped charge]] from an [[improvised explosive device]] (IED) penetrated the underside of a tank resulting in the driver losing a leg and causing minor injuries to another soldier.<ref>{{cite web |first=Patrick |last=Foster |url= https://www.thetimes.com/uk/defence/article/improvised-bomb-hits-british-tank-5ctnfgvbzp9 |work=[[The Times]] |title= Improvised bomb hits British tank |date=23 April 2007 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20201031005243/https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/improvised-bomb-hits-british-tank-5ctnfgvbzp9 |archive-date=31 October 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Caroline |last=Wyatt |url= http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/8291969.stm | work =BBC News |title= Injured troops battle bureaucracy |date=6 October 2009 |url-status=live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20091105065249/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/8291969.stm |archive-date= 5 November 2009}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Norton-Taylor |first=Richard |date=2007-04-23 |title=Roadside bomb pierces Challenger tank in Iraq |url=https://www.theguardian.com/uk/2007/apr/24/iraq.world |access-date=2025-03-30 |work=The Guardian |language=en-GB |issn=0261-3077}}</ref>

[[File:Challenger_2_FV4034_-_Megatron_(7527723404).jpg|thumb|A Challenger 2 with added explosive reactive armour panels, manufactured by [[Rafael Advanced Defense Systems]]<ref name= "ReferenceA"/> on display at [[The Tank Museum]]]]
To help prevent incidents of this nature, Challenger 2s have been upgraded with a new passive armour package, including the use of add-on armour manufactured by [[Rafael Advanced Defense Systems]] of Israel.<ref name= "ReferenceA">''British Next Generation Armour'', Tankograd British Special no. 9009, Dan Hay</ref> When deployed on operations the Challenger 2 is now normally upgraded to Theatre Entry Standard (TES), which includes a number of modifications including armour and weapon system upgrades.

=== Operation Cabrit ===
Since 2017, the UK has regularly deployed Challenger 2 tanks, alongside [[Warrior IFV|Warrior Infantry Fighting Vehicles]], to [[Estonia]] as part of [[NATO Enhanced Forward Presence#United Kingdom|Operation Cabrit]]. The two squadrons of tanks currently deployed, form part of the British contribution to the [[NATO Enhanced Forward Presence]] multinational battlegroup in the Baltics.<ref>{{cite book |last1= Brooke-Holland |first1=Louisa |title= UK forces in Estonia |date=21 November 2022 |publisher=House of Commons Library |pages=1–10 |url= https://researchbriefings.files.parliament.uk/documents/CBP-9639/CBP-9639.pdf |access-date=15 January 2023 |format=Commons Library Research Briefing}}</ref>

[[File:QRH Challenger 2s in Estonia MOD 45167100.jpg|thumb|A Challenger 2 of the [[Queen's Royal Hussars]] on exercise in Estonia, November 2020]]

=== Russian invasion of Ukraine ===
In July 2022, a squadron of 14 Challenger 2 tanks of the [[Queen's Royal Hussars]] were sent to [[Poland]] on an initial 6-month deployment. The squadron is to be integrated into a Polish battlegroup under Polish command. The move is designed to 'backfill' Polish capability after Polish [[T-72]] tanks were [[List of military aid to Ukraine during the Russo-Ukrainian War|donated to Ukraine]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Olver |first1=Rob |title= British Challenger 2 tanks stored at Sennelager head to Poland |url= https://www.forces.net/operations/germany/challenger-2-tanks-stored-sennelager-are-being-sent-poland |access-date=15 January 2023 | work = Forces |date=5 July 2022}}</ref>

On 21 June 2023, the Ukrainian army released a video purportedly showing the Challenger 2 in Ukraine. The tanks are assigned to the [[82nd Air Assault Brigade (Ukraine)|82nd Air Assault Brigade]]. In September 2023, Ukrainian Air Assault Forces Command published a video interview with a Ukrainian Challenger 2 crew member who stated that the tank was a "sniper rifle among tanks" due to its accuracy.<ref name= "ukraineinterview">{{cite web |title= Challenger 2 is a "Sniper Rifle Among Tanks," Says Ukrainian Soldier About the British MBT and Compares with Soviet T-80 |url = https://en.defence-ua.com/news/challenger_2_is_a_sniper_rifle_among_tanks_says_ukrainian_soldier_about_the_british_mbt_and_compares_with_soviet_t_80-7821.html#:~:text=Challenger%202%20is%20a%20%22Sniper,Compares%20with%20Soviet%20T%2D80 |website=Defense Express |access-date=3 September 2023}}</ref> 

On 4 September 2023, a video emerged from Robotyne which showed the first combat loss of a Challenger 2 tank.<ref name="destroyedchallenger"/> A [[9M133 Kornet]] missile triggered a fire that apparently cooked off the Challenger 2's ammunition charges, and the resulting blast wrenched the Challenger 2's [[Jack-in-the-box effect|turret from its hull]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Axe |first=David |title=The Challenger 2 Tank Has A Lot Of Armor. The Ukrainians Added More. |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidaxe/2023/09/24/the-challenger-2-tank-has-a-lot-of-armor-the-ukrainians-added-more/ |access-date=26 October 2023 |website=Forbes }}</ref>

[[File:Challenger 2 UA (2).jpg|thumb|Ukrainian Challenger 2. [[82nd Air Assault Brigade (Ukraine)|82nd Air Assault Brigade]], 2024]]
According to Ukrainian media in 10 March 2024: two more Challenger 2s had been damaged and repaired; only 7 of 14 remain in combat-ready condition. It is often necessary to repair turret parts and the aiming system; the low level of readiness is due to delays getting parts for routine repairs.<ref name="Unews">{{cite web|url=https://ukranews.com/en/news/990581-7-of-14-challenger-2-tanks-that-britain-handed-over-to-ukraine-remain-in-combat-ready-condition|title=7 of 14 Challenger 2 tanks that Britain handed over to Ukraine remain in combat-ready condition |date=10 March 2024}}</ref> One Ukrainian Challenger 2 crew member said that the tank's 1,200-horsepower engine is under-powered for a 71-ton vehicle, and they often get bogged down in soft soil and need towing by other Challengers or engineering vehicles. While a smoothbore 120&nbsp;mm L44 tank cannon has a useful life of up to 1,500 rounds, a rifled L30A1 wears out after only 500 rounds.<ref> {{Cite web |last=Axe |first=David |title=The British Challenger 2 Is The Wrong Tank For Ukraine |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidaxe/2024/03/27/the-british-challenger-2-is-the-wrong-tank-for-ukraine/ |access-date=2024-06-27 |website=Forbes |language=en}}</ref>
In August 2024, British news media reported that Challenger 2 tanks were participating in Ukraine's [[Kursk Oblast incursion]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.sky.com/story/british-challenger-2-tanks-thought-to-have-been-used-inside-russia-by-ukrainian-troops-sky-news-understands-13197260 |title=British Challenger 2 tanks have been used inside Russia by Ukrainian troops, Sky News understands |last=Haynes |first=Deborah |date=15 August 2024 |website=news.sky.com |publisher=Sky News UK |access-date=15 August 2024 }}</ref> During the incursion a Challenger 2 tank was destroyed by Russian forces using a [[ZALA Lancet|Lancet loitering munition]]; this would be the second confirmed loss of the tank during the war.<ref name="auto1">{{Cite news|title=Ex-British Challenger 2 Tanks Roll Into Kursk As Ukraine's Invasion of Russia Grinds Into Its 11th Day|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidaxe/2024/08/16/ex-british-challenger-2-tanks-roll-into-kursk-as-ukraines-invasion-of-russia-grinds-into-its-11th-day/|access-date=2024-08-17|website=[[Forbes]]}}</ref> The third Challenger 2 tank was damaged on 14 November 2024 after a Russian FPV drone struck the driver's position while the tank was parked in a tree line. Russian sources claimed the vehicle was destroyed.<ref name="Unews" /><ref name="auto1" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.forcesnews.com/russia/russia-claims-drone-has-hit-and-destroyed-british-supplied-challenger-2-tank|title=Russia claims drone has hit and destroyed British-supplied Challenger 2 tank|date=14 November 2024|website=www.forcesnews.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://bulgarianmilitary.com/2024/11/15/challenger-2-falls-to-fpv-drone-debunking-british-claims/ | title=Challenger 2 falls to FPV drone, debunking British claims | date=15 November 2024 }}</ref> A fourth Challenger 2 tank was damaged south of [[Malaya Loknya]] during the incursion on 5 January 2025 after a Russian FPV drone struck the [[gun mantlet]]. As with the third example, Russian sources claimed the vehicle as destroyed.<ref name="auto4"/><ref name="auto2">{{Cite web |title=UA map |url=https://map.ukrdailyupdate.com/?lat=51.297550&lng=35.217056&z=13&d=20093&c=1&l=0 |access-date=2025-02-06 |website=map.ukrdailyupdate.com}}</ref>

== Upgrades ==
=== CLIP ===
The Challenger Lethality Improvement Programme (CLIP) was a programme to replace the current L30A1 rifled gun with the smoothbore [[Rheinmetall 120 mm gun]] currently used in the [[Leopard 2]] and [[M1 Abrams]]. The use of a smoothbore weapon would have allowed Challenger 2 to use NATO standard ammunition, including tungsten-based [[kinetic energy penetrator]]s which do not have the same political and environmental objections as [[depleted uranium]] rounds. The production lines for rifled 120{{spaces}}mm ammunition in the UK have been closed for some years so existing stocks of ammunition for the L30A1 are finite.<ref name=forecastinternational>{{cite web |url=http://www.forecastinternational.com/archive/or/vo0190.doc |title=ForecastInternational |format=doc |access-date=8 August 2009}} {{dead link|date=July 2013|fix-attempted=yes}}</ref>

[[File:The 120mm smooth bore tank gun, looking down the barrel. MOD 45146593.jpg|thumb|Challenger 2 fitted with 120&nbsp;mm smoothbore gun for trials]]
A single Challenger 2 was fitted with the L55 and underwent trials in January 2006.<ref>{{cite web |title=100 Years of Firing At Lulworth Training Area |type=Blog |url=https://insidedio.blog.gov.uk/2016/07/25/100-years-of-firing-at-lulworth-training-area/ |access-date=28 March 2021 |website=[[Defence Infrastructure Organisation]] |date=25 July 2016}}</ref> The smoothbore gun was the same length as the L30A1 and was fitted with the rifled gun's cradle, thermal sleeve, bore evacuator and muzzle reference system. Early trials apparently revealed that the German tungsten DM53 round was more effective than the depleted uranium CHARM 3.<ref name="Fprado"/> The ammunition storage and handling arrangements had to be changed to cater for the single-piece smoothbore rounds, instead of the separate-loading rifled rounds. Other improvements were also considered, including a regenerative [[CBRN defense|NBC]] protection system.<ref>{{cite web |first=Christopher F |last=Foss |url=http://www.janes.com/defence/news/jdw/jdw060329_2_n.shtml |title=UK fields regenerative NBC system |work=Jane's Defence News |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080527151434/http://www.janes.com/defence/news/jdw/jdw060329_2_n.shtml |archive-date=27 May 2008}}</ref>

=== HAAIP ===

Updates to the automotive components of Challenger 2 are being undertaken as part of the ongoing Heavy Armour Automotive Improvement Programme (HAAIP), which is expected to continue until 2031, and expected to align with the Challenger 3 programme.<ref name="DVD 2018: BAE Systems' Challenger 2 demonstrator - Black Night">Archived at [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211211/clrF_-Il7zo Ghostarchive]{{cbignore}} and the [https://web.archive.org/web/20200820213433/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=clrF_-Il7zo&gl=US&hl=en Wayback Machine]{{cbignore}}: {{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=clrF_-Il7zo |title=DVD 2018: BAE Systems' Challenger 2 demonstrator - Black Night |publisher=Jane's by IHS Markit |date=21 September 2018 |access-date=22 September 2018}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref name="The Procurement Of HAAIP Main Engine Cooling Fans – Annex A"/> The HAAIP programme "will be made to existing in-service Challenger 2 tanks to increase their mobility and stability, both of which are critical to providing the foundation for the new turret and systems that will upgrade the vehicle to a Challenger 3."<ref name="amu">{{cite news |title=Challenger 2 vehicles prepared for an upgrade |url=https://www.army.mod.uk/news-and-events/news/2021/07/challenger-2-vehicles-prepared-for-an-upgrade/ |publisher=army.mod.uk |date=29 July 2021}}</ref>

HAAIP has already led to upgrades to the air filtration system, through the use of cleanable air filters with increased operating life, which were tested in [[Exercise Saif Sareea 3]] in October 2018.<ref name="auto">{{cite web |title=The Bulletin - Winter 2018/9 |access-date=21 August 2019 |url=https://www.baesystems.com/en/download-en/20190304155957/1434610861920.pdf}}</ref> The HAAIP programme, awarded to BAE Systems, was intended to apply a common engine and suspension standard to Challenger 2, the DTT, [[Challenger 1#CRAARV|CRARRV]], Titan and Trojan, improving reliability.<ref name="Armoured Fighting Vehicles:Written question - HL271">{{cite web |url=https://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Lords/2020-01-09/HL271 |title=Armoured Fighting Vehicles:Written question - HL271 |publisher=UK Parliament |date=9 January 2020 |access-date=5 March 2020}}</ref> However the Minister of State for Defence announced in April 2022 that a common engine (build standard) will be applied to Challenger 2, Challenger 3 and CRARRV only after a new refrigerant is found for the CTCS (Crew Temperature Control System).<ref name="Challenger Tanks: Engines (Qs.2)">{{Cite web |url=https://www.theyworkforyou.com/wrans/?id=2022-04-06.HL7764.h&s=speaker%3A25229#gHL7764.q0 |title=Challenger Tanks: Engines (Qs.2) |website=TheyWorkForYou |publisher=UK Parliament |date=22 April 2022 |access-date=24 April 2022}}</ref>

In terms of the powertrain, BAE Systems were evaluating whether to uprate the existing CV12 engine or swap this for alternative designs. The proposed CV12 upgrade by [[Caterpillar Inc.#Caterpillar Defense Products|Caterpillar Defense]] would fit electronically controlled common rail fuel injection and introduce engine health monitoring (HUMS). This would increase the maximum power output from 1,200{{spaces}}bhp (at 2,300&nbsp;rpm) to 1,500{{spaces}}bhp (at 2,400&nbsp;rpm), reduce battlefield smoke emissions, and improve fleet reliability and availability.<ref name="CV12 Military Engine">{{cite web |url=https://docs.tuyap.online/FDOCS/22431.pdf |title=CV12 Military Engine |publisher=Caterpillar |date=1 January 2018 |access-date=28 August 2020}}</ref><ref name="Caterpillar Defense Vehicle Engines and Future Plans (IAV 2019)">Archived at [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211211/VMvQxl1dEq0 Ghostarchive]{{cbignore}} and the [https://web.archive.org/web/20200820161508/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VMvQxl1dEq0&gl=US&hl=en Wayback Machine]{{cbignore}}: {{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VMvQxl1dEq0 |title=Caterpillar Defense Vehicle Engines and Future Plans (IAV 2019) |publisher=Jane's by IHS Markit |date=6 February 2019 |access-date=21 August 2019}}{{cbignore}}</ref> Since this information was released (February 2019) no further information in the public domain has been released regarding fitting Common Rail Fuel Injection and HUMS. The engines and transmission units have themselves also been remanufactured in recent years, with parts and equipment also purchased to convert CV12-6A engines to CV12-8A build standard.<ref name="United Kingdom-Bristol: Repair and maintenance services of military vehicles, 2014/S 172-305466">{{cite web |url=https://ted.europa.eu/udl?uri=TED:NOTICE:305466-2014:TEXT:EN:HTML&src=0 |title=United Kingdom-Bristol: Repair and maintenance services of military vehicles, 2014/S 172-305466 |publisher=Tenders Electronic Daily, OJEU |date=9 September 2014 |access-date=5 March 2020}}</ref><ref name="United Kingdom-Telford: Repair and maintenance services of vehicle transmissions, 2018/S 138-316646">{{cite web |url=https://ted.europa.eu/udl?uri=TED:NOTICE:316646-2018:TEXT:EN:HTML&src=0 |title=United Kingdom-Telford: Repair and maintenance services of vehicle transmissions, 2018/S 138-316646 |publisher=Tenders Electronic Daily, OJEU |date=20 July 2018 |access-date=5 March 2020}}</ref><ref name="United Kingdom-Telford: Repair, maintenance and associated services of vehicles and related equipment, 2020/S 034-081842">{{cite web |url=https://ted.europa.eu/udl?uri=TED:NOTICE:81842-2020:TEXT:EN:HTML&src=0 |title=United Kingdom-Telford: Repair, maintenance and associated services of vehicles and related equipment, 2020/S 034-081842 |publisher=Tenders Electronic Daily, OJEU |date=9 September 2014 |access-date=26 June 2021}}</ref> Publications in support of tender procurement for HAAIP indicate that a new CV12-9A engine build standard will be used for the Challenger 2s upgraded to become Challenger 3s, and for CRARRV.<ref name="The Procurement Of HAAIP Main Engine Cooling Fans – Annex F">{{Cite web |url=https://docs.google.com/viewer?url=https://www.contractsfinder.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/13bc2498-35ba-41bb-be4b-89b4780972e1 |title=Annex F – Government Furnished Information |website=UK MOD |date=13 August 2021 |access-date=18 April 2022}}/</ref>

Work to update the base Challenger 2 hull and automotive components, undertaken by DE&S, RBSL and Babcock, commenced in July 2021 in advance of these being converted to Challenger 3s. Equipment replaced during HAAIP will be checked for serviceability, repaired if required, and returned for re-use in the existing Challenger 2 fleet. The hulls will also undergo ultrasonic testing, weld repairs and repainting.<ref name="Work begins to prepare Challenger 2 vehicles for upgrade programme">{{cite web |url=https://des.mod.uk/challenger-2-vehicles-upgrade-programme |title=Work begins to prepare Challenger 2 vehicles for upgrade programme |publisher=UK Ministry of Defence |date=28 July 2021 |access-date=1 August 2021}}</ref>

The overall scope of HAAIP includes:
* Upgraded CV12-9A engines for Challenger 3 and CRARRV<ref name="The Procurement Of HAAIP Main Engine Cooling Fans – Annex F"/><ref name="des.mod.uk">{{Cite web |url=https://des.mod.uk/des-secures-contract-for-armys-challenger-3-tank/ |title=DE&S secures contract for Army's Challenger 3 tank |date=7 May 2021 |website=UK MOD, Defence Equipment & Support |access-date=26 June 2021}}</ref>
* Third Generation Hydrogas Suspension<ref name="Gen 3 HydroGas Project">{{cite web |url=https://ted.europa.eu/udl?uri=TED:NOTICE:15192-2020:TEXT:EN:HTML&src=0 |title=Gen 3 HydroGas Project |publisher=Tenders Electronic Daily - Supplement to the Official Journal of the EU |date=12 January 2020 |access-date=14 January 2020}}</ref><ref name="ted.europa.eu">{{cite web |url=https://ted.europa.eu/udl?uri=TED:NOTICE:333775-2020:TEXT:EN:HTML&src=0 |title=Repair and Conversion Hydrogas Gen 3 Suspension Parts |publisher=Tenders Electronic Daily - Supplement to the Official Journal of the EU |date=15 July 2020 |access-date=26 July 2020}}</ref><ref name="The Procurement Of HAAIP Main Engine Cooling Fans – Annex A">{{Cite web |url=https://contracts.mod.uk |title=Project: 701547382 - Procurement of HAAIP Main Engine Cooling Fans – Annex A, Contract Notice Supporting Information Document |date=26 April 2021 |website=UK MOD, Defence Sourcing Portal |access-date=14 October 2021}}</ref>
* New Hydraulic Track Tensioners (HTT) with inline accumulators<ref name="The Procurement Of HAAIP Main Engine Cooling Fans – Annex A"/>
* Improved Electric Cold Start System (Intake Manifold Heater)<ref name="The Procurement Of HAAIP Main Engine Cooling Fans – Annex A"/>
* Unspecified new components fitted to improve the transmissions<ref name="Work begins to prepare Challenger 2 vehicles for upgrade programme"/>
* New Main Engine Air Intake Filters<ref name="auto"/>
* Improved Main Engine/Transmission Cooling; fitting new high efficiency radiators (596 sets) and fans (294 triple fan sets with mountings and drive systems). These new more modern assemblies will increase cooling capacity and reduce engine fuel cutback mode (where engine power is reduced if cooling capacity for the main engine and transmission is exceeded) through improved air flow efficiency.<ref name="The Procurement Of HAAIP Main Engine Cooling Fans – Annex A"/><ref name="des.mod.uk"/><ref name="The Procurement of HAAIP Main Engine Cooling Fans">{{cite web |url=https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/008952-2021?origin=SearchResults&p=1 |title=The Procurement of HAAIP Main Engine Cooling Fans |publisher=UK Government |date=26 April 2021 |access-date=26 June 2021}}</ref><ref name="The Procurement of HAAIP Main Engine Cooling Fans (Corrigendum)">{{cite web |url=https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/019842-2021?origin=SearchResults&p=1 |title=The Procurement of HAAIP Main Engine Cooling Fans |publisher=UK Government |date=13 August 2021 |access-date=27 September 2021}}</ref><ref name="The procurement of HAAIP Main Engine Radiators">{{cite web |url=https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/012873-2021?origin=SearchResults&p=1 |title=The procurement of HAAIP Main Engine Radiators |publisher=UK Government |date=8 June 2021 |access-date=26 June 2021}}</ref> The contract for the new cooling fans has been awarded to AMETEK Airtechnology Group (the suppliers of the current design) and the contract for the new radiators awarded to Caterpillar.<ref name="AMETEK Airtechnology Group Awarded Engine Cooling Fans Contract for Challenger 2">{{cite web |url=https://www.ametek-airtechnology.com/newsevents/news/engine-cooling-fans-contract-for-challenger-2 |title=AMETEK Airtechnology Group Awarded Engine Cooling Fans Contract for Challenger 2 |date=24 January 2022 |access-date=20 February 2022}}</ref><ref name="Awarded contract, HAAIP Main Engine Radiators">{{cite web |url=https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/012772-2022 |title=Awarded contract, HAAIP Main Engine Radiators |date=17 May 2022 |access-date=18 May 2022}}</ref>

As of January 2022 six Challenger 2s were reported to have received the automotive upgrades prior to conversion to Challenger 3s.<ref name="IAV 2022: Challenger 3 upgrade underway">{{cite web |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/iav-2022-challenger-3-upgrade-under-way |author1=Nicholas Fiorenza |title=IAV 2022: Challenger 3 upgrade under way |publisher=Janes |date=28 January 2022 |access-date=19 April 2022}}</ref>

=== CSP / LEP / Challenger 3 ===
[[File:Challenger 2-Megatron MOD 45161557.jpg|thumb|Challenger 2 TES "Megatron", the British Theatre Entry Standard reference vehicle, at Bovington fitted with a Mobile Camouflage System (MCS) in 2016]]
[[File:QRH Challenger 2s in Estonia MOD 45167094.jpg|thumb|QRH Challenger 2 fitted with dozer blade in Estonia, 2020]]
In 2005, the MoD recognised a need for a Capability Sustainment Programme (CSP) to extend the service life of the Challenger 2 into the mid-2030s and upgrade its mobility, lethality and survivability.<ref name="DIS2005">{{cite book |title=Defence Industrial Strategy: Defence White Paper |date=2005 |publisher=[[The Stationery Office]] |location=[[London]] |isbn=0-10-166972-0 |page=79 |url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/272203/6697.pdf |access-date=29 March 2021}}</ref> The CSP was planned to be complete by 2020 and was to combine all the upgrades from CLIP, including the fitting of a 120&nbsp;mm smoothbore gun.<ref name="KRHRJ">{{cite book |title=The King's Royal Hussars: Regimental Journal 2007 |url=https://www.krh.org.uk/uploads/4/5/0/9/45090939/krh_2007.pdf |access-date=29 March 2021 |archive-date=25 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210725154456/https://www.krh.org.uk/uploads/4/5/0/9/45090939/krh_2007.pdf }}</ref><ref name="CSDP">{{cite book |title=Case Studies in Defence Procurement and Logistics |date=2014 |page=236 |url=https://research-repository.griffith.edu.au/bitstream/handle/10072/63083/97211_1.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y |access-date=29 March 2021}}</ref>

By 2014, the CSP programme had been replaced by the Life Extension Programme (LEP) which shared a similar scope of replacing obsolete components and extending the tank's service life from 2025 to 2035, however the 120&nbsp;mm smoothbore gun had seemingly been abandoned.<ref name="2014LEP">{{cite web |url=http://www.janes.com/article/40057/dvd-2014-uk-challenger-2-lep-numbers-may-drop |title=DVD 2014: UK Challenger 2 LEP numbers may drop |publisher=Janes.com |access-date=30 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141030150006/http://www.janes.com/article/40057/dvd-2014-uk-challenger-2-lep-numbers-may-drop |archive-date=30 October 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://rusi.org/event/dynamic-security-threats-and-british-army |title=Dynamic Security Threats and the British Army - Presentation to RUSI by Sir Nick Carter CGS of the British Army |access-date=22 March 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180329141808/https://rusi.org/event/dynamic-security-threats-and-british-army |archive-date=29 March 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=The Defence Equipment Plan 2017 |access-date=7 March 2018 |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/677999/20180125-EP17_Final.pdf}}</ref>

In 2015, the British Army provided an insight into the scope of the LEP, dividing it into four key areas, namely:<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.royaltankregiment.com/Uploads/Files/en-GB/RAC_Newsletter_Dec_2015.PDF |title=Archived copy of RTR December 2015 Newsletter |access-date=5 May 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161105073703/http://www.royaltankregiment.com/Uploads/Files/en-GB/RAC_Newsletter_Dec_2015.PDF |archive-date=5 November 2016}}</ref>
* Surveillance and target acquisition: Upgrades to the commander's primary sight and gunner's primary sight, as well as the replacement of the thermal observation and gunnery sights (TOGS) with third-generation thermal imaging.
* Weapon control system: Upgrades to the fire control computer, fire control panel and gun processing unit.
* Mobility: Upgrades including third-generation hydrogas suspension, improved air filtration, CV-12 common rail fuel injection, transmission and cooling.
* Electronic architecture: Upgrades to the gunner's control handles, video distribution architecture, generic vehicle architecture compliant interfaces, increased onboard processing and improved human machine interface.

The MoD also began assessing [[active protection system]]s (APS) on the Challenger 2, including [[MUSS (countermeasure)|MUSS]] and Rheinmetall's ROSY Rapid Obscurant System.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/543458/20160801-Letter_to_Maj_Gen_Gaunt_from_CGS.pdf |title=Armour MBT 2025 programme: SRO appointment letter |publisher=UK Ministry of Defence |access-date=3 August 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160919021931/https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/543458/20160801-Letter_to_Maj_Gen_Gaunt_from_CGS.pdf |archive-date=19 September 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/active-protection-for-our-armed-forces |title=Active Protection for our Armed Forces |publisher=DSTL / UK Government |date=5 July 2016 |access-date=15 March 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170730154359/https://www.gov.uk/government/news/active-protection-for-our-armed-forces |archive-date=30 July 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.janes.com/article/75743/challenger-2-trialled-with-rosy-iron-fist-aps |title=Challenger 2 trialled with ROSY, Iron Fist APS |publisher=Jane's International Defence Review |date=16 November 2017 |access-date=15 March 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181113125635/https://www.janes.com/article/75743/challenger-2-trialled-with-rosy-iron-fist-aps |archive-date=13 November 2018 }}</ref>

In August 2016, the MoD awarded assessment phase contracts to several companies for the Life Extension Programme. These included Team Challenger 2 (a consortium led by BAE Systems and including [[General Dynamics UK]]),<ref name="TeamCR2">{{cite web |title=BAE Systems' Team Challenger 2 awarded Assessment Phase for Life Extension Project |url=https://www.baesystems.com/en-uk/article/bae-systems--team-challenger--2-awarded-assessment-phase-for-life-extension-project |access-date=29 March 2021 |website=BAE Systems |date=22 December 2016}}</ref> [[CMI Defence]] and [[Ricardo plc]], [[Rheinmetall]] and [[Lockheed Martin UK]].<ref name="assessmentphase">{{cite news |title=UK Announces Life Extension Project |url=https://battle-updates.com/uk-mod-announces-challenger-2-life-extension-projectlep-by-julian-nettlefold/ |access-date=29 March 2021 |work=Battlespace |date=22 August 2016}}</ref><ref name="Final bids in for Challenger 2 LEP">{{cite web |url=https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/1761650 |title=Several contenders line up for Challenger 2 life extension programme |publisher=IHS Jane's |date=11 August 2016 |access-date=14 November 2016}}</ref> In November, the MoD shortlisted two teams led by BAE Systems and Rheinmetall to compete for the LEP which was then estimated to be worth £650&nbsp;million ($802&nbsp;million).<ref name="Field Narrows for UK Battle Tank Modernization">{{cite web |url=http://www.defensenews.com/articles/field-narrows-for-uk-battle-tank-modernization |title=Field Narrows for UK Battle Tank Modernization |publisher=Defense News Andrew Chute |date=2 November 2016 |access-date=14 November 2016}}</ref><ref name="Challenger 2 LEP contracts due in December">{{cite web |url=https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/1788580 |title=Challenger 2 LEP contracts due in December |publisher=IHS Jane's |date=14 November 2016 |access-date=14 November 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/mod-awards-46m-to-start-challenger-2-tank-life-extension-project-competition |title=MOD awards £46M to start Challenger 2 Tank life extension project competition |publisher=gov.uk |access-date=22 December 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161223065857/https://www.gov.uk/government/news/mod-awards-46m-to-start-challenger-2-tank-life-extension-project-competition |archive-date=23 December 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref>

In October 2018, BAE Systems unveiled its proposed Challenger 2 LEP technology demonstrator, the "Black Night".<ref name="bk1">{{cite news |last1=Allison |first1=George |title=BAE unveils 'Black Night' – the first fully-upgraded Challenger 2 tank |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/bae-unveils-black-knight-the-first-fully-upgraded-challenger-2-tank/ |access-date=29 March 2021 |work=[[UK Defence Journal]] |date=8 October 2018}}</ref> The new improvements included a [[Safran]] PASEO commander's sight, [[Leonardo S.p.A.|Leonardo]] thermal imager for the gunner and Leonardo DNVS 4 night sight. The turret also received modifications to improve the speed of traverse and to provide greater space as well as regenerative braking to generate and store power. Other enhancements included a laser warning system and an active protection system.<ref name="bk1"/><ref>{{cite news |title=BAE Systems unveils Black Night Challenger 2 MBT for British Army |url=https://www.army-technology.com/news/bae-black-night-challenger-2-army/ |access-date=29 March 2021 |work=Army Technology |date=5 October 2018}}</ref> Months later, in January 2019, Rheinmetall unveiled its proposal which included the development of a completely new turret with fully digital electronic architecture, day and night sights for the commander and gunner, and a Rheinmetall L55 120{{spaces}}mm smoothbore gun. Whilst a more substantial upgrade than Black Night, the turret was developed on Rheinmetall's initiative and was not funded by the UK MoD, nor was it part of the MoD's LEP requirements.<ref name="Rheinmetall, BAE Systems launch joint venture for military vehicles.">{{Cite web |url=https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2019/01/21/rheinmetall-bae-systems-launch-joint-venture-for-military-vehicles/ |title=Rheinmetall, BAE Systems launch joint venture for military vehicles |date=21 January 2019 |publisher=Defense News |access-date=25 January 2019}}</ref><ref name="BAE Systems sells control of vehicles arm to Rheinmetall.">{{Cite news |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-46946413 |title=BAE Systems sells control of vehicles arm to Rheinmetall |publisher=BBC News |date=21 January 2019 |access-date=25 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190124073058/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-46946413 |archive-date=24 January 2019 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="IAV 2019: Rheinmetall unveils proposal for Challenger 2 LEP.">{{Cite web |url=https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_1520905-JDW |title=IAV 2019: Rheinmetall unveils proposal for Challenger 2 LEP |publisher=Jane's JDW |access-date=25 January 2019 |url-access=subscription}}</ref>

In June 2019, BAE Systems and Rheinmetall formed a joint venture company, based in the UK, named [[Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land]] (RBSL).<ref name="RBSL Home">{{cite web |url=https://rbsl.com/ |title=RBSL website home page for navigation |publisher=RBSL |access-date=14 January 2021}}</ref> Despite the merger, the company was still expected to present two separate proposals for the LEP contract,<ref>{{cite news |title=Challenger 2 Upgrade Decision Will Not Be Made Until 2021 |url=https://www.forces.net/news/technology/challenger-2-upgrade-decision-will-not-be-made-until-2021 |access-date=29 March 2021 |work=Forces News |date=1 July 2019}}</ref> however, at [[DSEI]] 2019, RBSL instead opted to only showcase the Rheinmetall proposal.<ref>{{cite news |title=DSEI 2019: RBSL's Challenger 2 LEP contender comes out in the open |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/dsei-2019-rbsls-challenger-2-lep-contender-comes-out-in-the-open |access-date=29 March 2021 |work=Forces News |date=12 September 2019}}</ref>

In October 2020, the MoD argued against buying a new main battle tank from overseas instead of pursuing the Challenger 2 LEP, stating that an upgraded Challenger 2 would be "comparable – and in certain areas superior" to a Leopard 2 or Abrams.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://committees.parliament.uk/writtenevidence/12523/pdf/ |title=Written evidence submitted by the Ministry of Defence HCDC Inquiry: Progress in delivering the British Army's armoured vehicle |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=6 October 2020 |website=committees.parliament.uk/ |publisher=House of Commons Defence Committee |access-date=30 October 2020 |quote=The Challenger 2 Life Extension Project will be the first significant upgrade since it entered service in 1998 ... it will be comparable ... in certain areas superior – to the latest version of Leopard 2 and Abrams.}}</ref>

On 22 March 2021, the MoD published its long-awaited [[command paper]], ''[[Defence in a Competitive Age]]'', which confirmed the British Army's plans to upgrade 148 Challenger 2 tanks and designate them [[Challenger 3]].<ref name="DIACAb">{{cite book |date=March 2021 |title=Defence in a Competitive Age |url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/971859/_CP_411__-_Defence_in_a_competitive_age.pdf |access-date=22 March 2021 |publisher=Ministry of Defence |isbn=978-1-5286-2462-6}}</ref><ref name="FSTBA">{{cite news |title=Future Soldier: Transforming the British Army |url=https://www.army.mod.uk/media/11826/20210322-army-future_soldier-publication-final.pdf |access-date=28 March 2021 |website=Ministry of Defence |date=22 March 2021}}</ref> The MoD confirmed the contract with RBSL had been signed, valued at £800&nbsp;million (US$1&nbsp;billion), on 7 May 2021. Rheinmetall's more extensive upgrade proposal, including the new 120&nbsp;mm smoothbore gun, had been accepted. The [[initial operating capability]] for the upgraded tanks is expected by 2027, with full operation capability expected to be declared by 2030.<ref name=dnci>{{citation |url=https://www.defensenews.com/industry/2021/05/07/britain-awards-1-billion-contract-to-upgrade-challenger-2-tanks/ |title=Britain awards $1 billion contract to upgrade Challenger 2 tanks |work=[[Defense News]] |date=7 May 2021}}</ref>

=== Other in-service upgrades ===

On 15 December 2017, BAE Systems was awarded a contract to maintain the Challenger 2's thermal imaging system as part of a £15.4&nbsp;million interim solution separate to the LEP.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://ted.europa.eu/TED/notice/udl?uri=TED:NOTICE:500141-2017:TEXT:EN:HTML&WT.mc_id=RSS-Feed&WT.rss_f=Materials+and+Products&WT.rss_a=500141-2017&WT.rss_ev=a |title=Challenger 2 Thermal imaging sustainment project. Reference number: AVPISP/00113 |publisher=Official Journal of the EU |date=15 December 2017 |access-date=1 March 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180306023338/http://ted.europa.eu/TED/notice/udl?uri=TED:NOTICE:500141-2017:TEXT:EN:HTML&WT.mc_id=RSS-Feed&WT.rss_f=Materials+and+Products&WT.rss_a=500141-2017&WT.rss_ev=a |archive-date=6 March 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref> In October 2019, it was announced that [[Thales Group|Thales]] would be supplying their Catherine Megapixel (MP) thermal imaging camera.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.janes.com/article/91854/thales-uk-supplying-new-ti-camera-for-challenger-2-tanks |title=Thales UK supplying new TI camera for Challenger 2 tanks |publisher=Janes by IHS Markit |date=11 October 2019 |access-date=20 October 2019}}</ref>

[[File:CR2 82 slatarmor.webp|thumb|right|Challenger 2 tank in service with the Ukrainian [[82nd Air Assault Brigade (Ukraine)|82nd Air Assault Brigade]], with slat armor added on the hull sides and lower front plate.]]
In August 2023, photos appeared of Challenger 2s in Ukrainian service featuring [[Slat armor#Top-mounting|top-mounted slat armor]], similar to those found on Russian vehicles used in the conflict, primarily to protect from UAV attacks. The tank was also equipped with slat armor covering the hull flanks and lower frontal hull plate.<ref name=telegraph-20230816>{{cite news |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2023/08/16/ukraine-british-challenger-2-tank-modified-russian-drones/ |title=Ukraine modifies British Challenger 2 tanks to protect them from Russian drones |last1=Sheridan |first1=Danielle |last2=Vasilyeva |first2=Nataliya |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |url-access=limited |date=16 August 2023 |access-date=17 August 2023}}</ref>

On 21 January 2025, during DefenceIQ's International Armoured Vehicles exhibition and conference, the British Defense Ministry announced that it was trialing Challenger 2 tanks equipped with [[anti-drone cage]]s.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.army-technology.com/news/uk-trials-cope-cages-for-challenger-2-tanks/ | title=UK trials cope cages for Challenger 2 tanks | date=28 January 2025 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://thedefensepost.com/2025/01/29/british-army-challenger-cages/ | title=British Army Considering Modifying Challenger 2 Tanks with 'Cope Cages' | date=29 January 2025 }}</ref>

==Variants==
=== Challenger 2 Driver Training Tank ===
[[File:Modified tanks, Bovington training grounds, Dorset - geograph.org.uk - 587792.jpg|thumb|Challenger 2 DTTs on exercise at [[Bovington Camp]] in 2007]]
The Challenger 2 Driver Training Tank (DTT) is based on the Challenger 2 hull. The turret has been replaced with a fixed weighted superstructure to accommodate an instructor and up to 4 trainees. The design is similar to the Challenger 1 derived Challenger Training Tank (CTT). Weighting the superstructure replicates the weight (and therefore also the driving characteristics) of the standard tank in operational service. 22 DTTs are in British service, with 2 in service with Oman.

=== Titan ===
[[File:TITAN Armoured Vehicle Launcher Bridge.jpg|thumb|Titan Bridge Launcher with No. 12 Bridge on exercise in the [[Salisbury Plain Training Area]]{{Main|Titan Armoured Vehicle Launching Bridge}}
]]

The Titan [[armoured bridge layer]] is based on aspects of the Challenger 2 running gear and replaced the ''Chieftain Armoured Vehicle Launched Bridge'' (ChAVLB). The Titan came into service in 2006 with the Royal Engineers, with 33 in service. Titan can carry a single 26-metre-long bridge or two 12-metre-long bridges. It can also be fitted with a bulldozer blade.

=== Trojan ===
[[File:Trojan AVRE - Tankfest 2009.jpg|thumb|Trojan AVRE]]
{{main|Trojan Armoured Vehicle Royal Engineers}}

The Trojan [[Armoured Vehicle Royal Engineers]] is a [[combat engineering vehicle]] designed as a replacement for the ''Chieftain AVRE'' (ChAVRE). It uses the Challenger 2 chassis, and carries an articulated excavator arm, a dozer blade, and attachment rails for [[fascine]]s. Entering service in 2007, 33 were produced.

=== Challenger 2E ===
The Challenger 2E is an export version of the tank. It has a new integrated weapon control and battlefield management system, which includes a gyrostabilised panoramic SAGEM MVS 580-day/thermal sight for the commander and SAGEM SAVAN 15 gyrostabilised day/thermal sight for the gunner, both with eye-safe laser rangefinder. This allows hunter/killer operations with a common engagement sequence. An optional servo-controlled overhead weapons platform can be slaved to the commander's sight to allow operation independent from the turret.

The power pack has been replaced by a new {{convert|1500|hp|kW|abbr=on}} [[EuroPowerPack]] with a transversely mounted [[MTU Friedrichshafen|MTU]] MT883 diesel engine coupled to [[Renk]] HSWL 295TM automatic transmission. The increase in both vehicle performance and durability is significant. The smaller volume but more powerful EuroPowerPack additionally incorporates as standard a cooling system and air intake filtration system proved in desert use.

The free space in the hull is available for ammunition stowage or for fuel, increasing the vehicle's range to {{convert|550|km|abbr=on}}. This power pack was previously installed on the French Leclerc tanks delivered to the UAE as well as the recovery tank version of the Leclerc in service with the French Army. Further developed versions of the EuroPowerPack have more recently been installed in the latest serial produced Korean [[K2 Black Panther]] tank.

BAES announced in 2005 that development and export marketing of 2E would stop. This has been linked by the media to the failure of the 2E to be selected for the [[Hellenic Army]] in 2002, a competition won by the [[Leopard 2]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.janes.com/defence/land_forces/news/jdi/jdi050518_1_n.shtml |title=Challenger nears end of the line |publisher=Jane's Land Forces News |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070214142612/http://www.janes.com/defence/land_forces/news/jdi/jdi050518_1_n.shtml |archive-date=14 February 2007}}</ref>

=== CRARRV ===
{{main|Challenger Armoured Repair and Recovery Vehicle}}
[[File:Urgent Operational Requirement (UOR)Equipment Demonstration MOD 45149026.jpg|thumb|A CRARRV on exercise in the [[Salisbury Plain Training Area]] in 2008]]
The [[Challenger Armoured Repair and Recovery Vehicle]] (CRARRV) is an [[armoured recovery vehicle]] based on the Challenger 1 hull, designed to repair and recover damaged tanks on the battlefield. Ordered in 1985, and delivered between 1988 and 1993, the CRARRV has subsequently been updated to use a Challenger 2 powertrain consisting of a CV12-5C/6C engine<ref name="Challenger Tanks: Engines (Qs.1)">{{Cite web |url=https://www.theyworkforyou.com/wrans/?id=2022-04-06.HL7761.h&s=speaker%3A25229#gHL7761.q0 |title=Challenger Tanks: Engines (Qs.1) |website=TheyWorkForYou |publisher=UK Parliament |date=22 April 2022 |access-date=24 April 2022}}</ref> with TN54E transmission. The British Army ordered 80 vehicles. Four CRARRVs were purchased by Oman to complement their acquisition of Challenger 2 tanks.

CRARRVs were first deployed in action in the lead up to the [[Gulf War|First Gulf War]], [[Operation Granby]] in 1991. They were subsequently deployed during the [[2003 invasion of Iraq]], [[Operation Telic]] in 2003, alongside standard Challenger 2 MBTs.

== Operators ==
<!--READ FIRST: This section is for cited entries only. Please do not add entries into this list without a citation from a reliable source. All entries without a citation will be removed. Thank you.-->
[[File:Challenger 2 UA.jpg|thumb|Ukrainian Challenger 2 in November 2024]]

* {{Flag|United Kingdom}}: [[British Army]] - 386 delivered + 22 driver trainer units. '''219''' remain in operational service as of 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |title=UK armed forces equipment and formations 2024 |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/uk-armed-forces-equipment-and-formations-2024/uk-armed-forces-equipment-and-formations-2024 |access-date=2025-03-01 |website=GOV.UK |language=en}}</ref>
* {{Flag|Oman}}: [[Royal Army of Oman]] – 38 purchased from 1993 onwards.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.upi.com/Archives/1993/06/22/Oman-buys-18-British-tanks/6661740721600/ | title=Oman buys 18 British tanks - UPI Archives }}</ref>
* {{Flag|Ukraine}}: [[Ukrainian Air Assault Forces]]<ref>{{Cite web |last=Axe |first=David |title=Ukraine's Paratroopers Are Getting Heavy, Slow Challenger 2 Tanks. That Could Force A Change In Tactics. |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidaxe/2023/02/09/ukraines-paratroopers-are-getting-heavy-slow-challenger-2-tanks-that-could-force-a-change-in-tactics/ |access-date=2 May 2023 |website=Forbes }}</ref> – in January 2023 it was confirmed that the United Kingdom will supply Ukraine with 14 Challenger 2 main battle tanks along with support vehicles.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Sabbagh |first1=Dan |title=UK considers supplying handful of Challenger 2 tanks to Ukraine |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jan/09/uk-considers-supplying-handful-of-challenger-2-tanks-to-ukraine-war-russia |work=The Guardian |date=9 January 2023 |access-date=9 January 2023}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last1=Barnes |first1=Joe |last2=Day |first2=Matthew |date=11 January 2023 |title=Britain planning to provide tanks to Ukraine, Downing Street confirms  |work=The Telegraph |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2023/01/11/poland-piles-pressure-germany-release-battle-tanks-ukraine/ |access-date=12 January 2023 |issn=0307-1235}}</ref><ref name="bbc.co.uk" /> On 29 January 2023, the first Ukrainian troops arrived in the UK to begin training on Challenger 2 tanks.<ref name="BFBS" /> These troops completed their training on 27 March and returned to Ukraine; the first Challenger 2 tanks were delivered to Ukraine on the same date.<ref name="Financial Times" /> As of 10 March 2024, 13 units remained in operational status among Ukrainian Armed Forces. As of 1 April 2025, two units have been confirmed destroyed with a further two potentially damaged and destroyed, based on visual evidence.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.reuters.com/world/russian-forces-destroy-first-british-supplied-challenger-2-tank-ukraine-official-2023-09-05/ | title=Russian forces destroy first British-supplied Challenger 2 tank in Ukraine, official says | work=Reuters | date=5 September 2023 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/sep/05/british-challenger-2-tank-destroyed-in-combat-for-first-time-ukraine-footage-shows | title=British Challenger 2 tank destroyed in combat for first time, Ukraine footage shows | work=The Guardian | date=5 September 2023 | last1=Sabbagh | first1=Dan | last2=Defence | first2=Dan Sabbagh }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://bulgarianmilitary.com/2024/08/17/second-uk-challenger-2-tank-destroyed-390-miles-from-moscow/ | title=Second UK Challenger 2 tank destroyed 390 miles from Moscow | date=17 August 2024 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.thetimes.com/world/russia-ukraine-war/article/british-challenger-tanks-russian-forces-ukraine-pckmp0vnp | title=Challenger tanks give Ukraine a big advantage. But there aren't enough | date=12 February 2025 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.oryxspioenkop.com/2022/02/attack-on-europe-documenting-ukrainian.html | title=Attack on Europe: Documenting Ukrainian Equipment Losses During the Russian Invasion of Ukraine }}</ref><ref name="auto2"/>

== Accidents and incidents ==
* In July 2001, the commander and operator-loader of a Challenger 2 were killed in an accident in the [[Salisbury Plain Training Area]], near [[Imber]]. Their tank rolled over after falling off the edge of a track, crushing both men who suffered fatal injuries. At the subsequent [[Inquests in England and Wales|inquest]], the jury returned a verdict of accidental death, and called for improvements in training given to inexperienced tank crews.<ref>{{cite news |title=Army deaths were accident |url=https://www.gazetteandherald.co.uk/news/7340248.army-deaths-were-accident/ |access-date=11 January 2023 |work=Wiltshire Gazette and Herald |date=12 September 2001}}</ref>
* On 1 June 2015, a Challenger 2 on exercise in [[Lippe (district)|Lippe]], near [[Paderborn]], Germany, crushed the car of a learner driver who pulled out in front of a column of British armoured vehicles. The driver was unhurt.<ref>{{cite news |title=British tank crushes learner driver's car in Germany |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/newsbeat-32973341 |access-date=11 January 2023 |work=BBC News |date=2 June 2015}}</ref>
* On 14 June 2017, a Challenger 2 from The Royal Tank Regiment suffered an ammunition explosion during live firing exercises at the [[Castlemartin Training Area|Castlemartin Range]] in Pembrokeshire. The tank was firing 120&nbsp;mm practice shells with a standard propellant charge. The explosion critically injured the four-man crew, with two later dying of their wounds in hospital. The incident resulted in all British Army tank firing exercises being suspended for 48 hours while the cause of the explosion was investigated.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-south-west-wales-40300599 |title=Two Soldiers Dead in Castlemartin Accident |date=16 June 2017 |publisher=BBC News |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181010193608/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-south-west-wales-40300599 |archive-date=10 October 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref> It was later determined that a bolt vent axial (BVA) seal assembly had been removed during an earlier exercise and had not been replaced at the time of the incident, allowing explosive gases to enter the turret space; the lack of a written process for removal and replacement of the seal assembly meant that the crew at the time of the incident were unaware of its absence, and it was also noted that inadequate consideration had been given during the production of the L30 gun as to whether it could be fired without the seal assembly. A second explosion that occurred during the incident was attributed to the detonation of bag charges that had not been stowed in the internal ammunition bins, as required by correct procedure.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-44861558 |title=Army tank explosion deaths caused by design flaw |date=17 July 2018 |publisher=BBC News |access-date=17 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180717143325/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-44861558 |archive-date=17 July 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref>

===''War Thunder'' classified documents incident===
In July 2021, excerpts of the tank's ''Army Equipment Support Publication'' (i.e. the user manual), containing technical specifications of the vehicle, were posted on the official forums of the war simulation game ''[[War Thunder]]''; the poster, allegedly a Challenger 2 tank commander, said he had done so in the hope that developer [[Gaijin Entertainment]] would modify the performance of the in-game tank to match the specifications detailed in the document.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Allison |first=George |date=16 July 2021 |title=Classified Challenger tank specs leaked online for videogame |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/classified-challenger-tank-specs-leaked-online-for-videogame/ |website=ukdefencejournal.org.uk |access-date=15 January 2023  |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221207145137/https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/classified-challenger-tank-specs-leaked-online-for-videogame/ |archive-date=7 December 2022 |url-status=live}}</ref> The leaked excerpts of the AESP document had been edited to appear as though it had been [[declassified]] under the UK's [[Freedom of Information Act 2000]]. However, the [[Ministry of Defence (United Kingdom)|MoD]] confirmed that the information was in fact still [[classified information|classified]], and that if Gaijin were to disseminate the tank's specifications, they would be liable to prosecution under the [[Official Secrets Act 1989|Official Secrets Act]]. Due to these possible legal penalties, Gaijin refused to handle or utilise the leaked specifications.<ref>{{Cite web |title=War Thunder Forum |url=https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/442882-challenger-2/&do=findComment&comment=9047584 |website=forum.warthunder.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210716195246/https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/442882-challenger-2/&do=findComment&comment=9047584 |archive-date=16 July 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref>

==Future replacement==
Following Britain's exit from the European Union, early in 2021 the United Kingdom entered talks to be allowed into the [[European Main Battle Tank]] project as an observer. This may have a bearing on a future replacement of the [[Challenger 3]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2021/01/11/british-military-looks-to-the-eurotank-as-it-weighs-its-hardware-options/ |title=British military looks to the 'Eurotank' as it weighs its hardware options |first1=Andrew |last1=Chuter |first2=Sebastian |last2=Sprenger |date=11 January 2021 |website=Defense News}}</ref>

== Vehicles on display ==
Many of the pre-production prototype Challenger 2 vehicles are on display in the United Kingdom:

* The third and fifth prototype vehicles are displayed at [[The Tank Museum]], [[Bovington]], Dorset.
* The fourth prototype is a [[gate guardian]] outside the Royal Armoured Corps Gunnery School, [[Lulworth Camp]], Dorset.
* The seventh prototype vehicle has been plinthed outside the [[National Army Museum]] in [[Chelsea, London|Chelsea]], London, since 2021.<ref>{{cite web |title=A Tank in Chelsea |url=https://chelseasociety.org.uk/a-tank-in-chelsea/ |website=The Chelsea Society |date=19 May 2021 |access-date=11 January 2023}}</ref> This vehicle also appeared in Vickers' original sales marketing.<ref>{{Cite tweet |author=Jon Hawkes |user=@JonHawkes275 |number=1393846702319312899 |title=Here some scans of one of my original Vickers brochure from the time}}</ref>
* The eighth prototype is in the teaching collection of the [[Defence Academy of the United Kingdom|Defence Academy]], Shrivenham, Oxfordshire.
* The ninth prototype vehicle has been displayed outside the [[Discovery Museum]] in [[Newcastle upon Tyne]] since 2014. It was previously displayed outside the [[Vickers plc|Vickers]] Elswick plant in the city.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Henderson |first1=Tony |title=Challenger tank given to Newcastle museum to mark Tyneside's industrial legacy |url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/challenger-tank-given-newcastle-museum-8053525 |website=Chronicle Live |publisher=Evening Chronicle (Newcastle) |access-date=11 January 2023 |date=5 November 2014}}</ref>
* A Challenger 2, likely a prototype, is plinthed outside Allenby Barracks, [[Bovington Camp]], Dorset.
* The prototype CRARRV is on display at The [[REME Museum]] at [[MoD Lyneham]], Wiltshire.<ref>{{cite web |title=A 21st Century Military Museum |url=https://www.rememuseum.org.uk/News/a-21st-century-military-museum |website=The REME Museum |access-date=11 January 2023 |date=17 March 2017}}</ref>

In 2021, the then UK [[Minister for Defence Procurement]], [[Jeremy Quin]], acknowledged in a written answer, that were no current plans to dispose of a production vehicle to a museum, but that the UK MoD were aware that [[The Tank Museum]] intend to secure one for their collection.<ref>{{cite web |title=Tank Museum: Challenger Tanks: Question for Ministry of Defence, UIN 44214, tabled on 7 September 2021 |url=https://questions-statements.parliament.uk/written-questions/detail/2021-09-07/44214# |website=Written questions, answers and statements |publisher=UK Parliament |access-date=11 January 2023 |date=13 September 2021}}</ref>

<gallery widths=200 heights=160>
File:FV4034 Challenger 2 ’06 SP 93’ “Cyclops” (52020256636).jpg|Challenger 2 on display outside the [[National Army Museum]], London
File:Challenger 2 tank outside the Discovery Museum September 2022.jpg|Challenger 2 on display outside the [[Discovery Museum]] in September 2022
</gallery>

== See also ==
* [[List of main battle tanks by generation]]

==Notes==
{{Reflist|group=note}}

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

== External links ==
{{Commons category|Challenger 2 tanks}}
* {{Official website|https://www.army.mod.uk/learn-and-explore/equipment/combat-vehicles/challenger-2/}}, British Army

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[[Category:Main battle tanks of the United Kingdom]]
[[Category:Military vehicles introduced in the 1990s]]
[[Category:Post–Cold War main battle tanks]]
[[Category:Post–Cold War tanks of the United Kingdom]]
[[Category:Vickers]]