Military/Intelligence Bulletin 05/2018 – Challenger 2 MBT LEP.

The Challenger 2 MBT LEP selection draws closer.

The 24-month Assessment Phase (AP), to determine which of the two bidders for the Challenger 2 MBT Life Extension Programme will be completed by the end of 2018.

There are currently two competitors, a BAE Systems-led team that includes General Dynamics Land Systems UK, and Rheinmetall, a German company.

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Challenger 2 MBT – Bovington Tank Museum

Photo – Harvey Black

The plan is to upgrade 227 Challenger 2 MBT’s operated by the UK’s three Armoured Infantry Brigades.

The two companies have each been supplied with two Challenger 2’s to use for the assessment. One is a fully functioning MBT, while the second one is to be used as a demonstrator for new subsystems. These will include stabilised sighting systems for commander and gunner, associated control handles, gun control equipment, elements of the fire-control systems and crew displays.

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Challenger 2 MBT – Bovington Tank Museum

Photo – Harvey Black

 BAE is considering utilisation of turret elements developed for the Ajax reconnaissance vehicle.

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Ajax Reconnaissance vehicle

Photo by: Richard Watt/MOD, OGL

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Challenger 2 – Bovington TankFest

Photo – Harvey Black

On the other hand, Rheinmetall will leverage it’s development experience with the Leopard 2 MBT turrets and other vehicles.

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Leopard 2A4

Photo – Harvey Black

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Megatron

Photo – Harvey Black

The Invitation to tender for a demonstration by both companies for the Demonstration, Manufacture and In Service, is  expected to be released around August 2018. A response is expected by December 2018, with a potential contact awarded in mid-2019.

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Megatron – Bovington Tankfest

Photo – Harvey Black

Each of the the British Army’s three Armoured Infantry Brigades are assigned a Challenger 2 regiment of 56 MBTs. Two for the headquarters. The first squadron with the new upgraded Challenger 2’s, is expected to be operational during 2022-2023.

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Megatron – Bovington Tankfest

Photo – Harvey Black

The earlier attempt at an upgrade, the Challenger 2 Capability Sustainment Programme (CSP) has been dropped in favour of of the LEP.

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Megatron – Bovington Tankfest

Photo – Harvey Black

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Post and photos copyrighted to Harvey Black