RBSL has successfully conducted a series of firing tests of the new L55A1CR3 gun for the modernised British Challenger 3 tank

The UK is working at an accelerated pace to modernise the Challenger 3 main battle tank. The new gun was tested this year.

Here's What We Know

The successful series of firing tests was announced by Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL) at DSEI 2023, which is being held in the UK capital these days. The Challenger 3 will be equipped with the L55A1CR3 120mm smoothbore cannon.

The use of the L55A1CR3 instead of the British L30 rifled gun is one of the key components of the modernisation of the main battle tank. The Challenger 3 will also receive a new turret and Israeli Trophy active defence. Production of the turrets is set up in Newcastle at Armstrong Works.

The UK is investing more than $1bn in modernisation to get almost 150 Challenger 3 tanks. The United Kingdom intends to accelerate the pace so that the combat vehicles will be in service in 2025, two years earlier than planned.

Source: Defence News