DSEI 2023: RBSL successfully tests Challenger 3 120mm cannon.

At DSEI 2023, Rheinmetall announced that the Challenger 3 (CR3) program has achieved a significant milestone with the successful test firings of its 120mm smoothbore cannon. Conducted in April of this year, these tests employed the 120mmL55A1 weapon system in the 120mmL55A1CR3 configuration, designed for the British Main Battle Tank (MBT) CR3. This new weapon system aims to provide the British Army with the capabilities required to address current and future battlefield challenges.
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Challenger 3 British Main Battle Tank (Picture source: Rheinmetall )

The first two 120mm L55A1 smoothbore guns were produced ahead of schedule in 2021 at the Rheinmetall factory in Unterluess. These guns are crucial components of the CR3 program, which aspires to deliver NATO's most capable tank. After production, the cannons underwent rigorous testing and validation before being sent to the RBSL facility in Telford to be integrated into the new digital turret of the tank.

In August 2023, the first CR3 citadel for Prototype 1 (P1) was delivered to Telford. This steel structure will serve as the foundation for the first CR3 turret. Initially, the citadel will be used in the first test vehicle, P1, but plans are in place to upgrade it to become part of a fully operational Challenger 3 tank that will serve the British Army for many years to come. The delivery of this citadel, in collaboration with Pearson Engineering, marks another significant milestone in the program.

Since the project's inception, teams from all participating companies have worked collaboratively to address challenges and opportunities. Gareth Ayre, Head of Physical Architecture and Mobility for the Challenger 3 at RBSL, emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating that the manufacturing capabilities and expertise brought by Pearson Engineering and Responsive Engineering were essential in achieving RBSL's advanced turret structure.

Craig Priday, CEO of Pearson Engineering, also highlighted the collaborative nature of the project, noting that the extended teamwork allowed the companies to identify challenges early and develop effective solutions.

The year 2023 has been pivotal for the Challenger 3 program. It began with the approval of the Critical Design Review (CDR), which was completed ahead of schedule and within budget. This followed the Initial Design Review (IDR) held in March 2022. RBSL, the Defence Equipment and Support Land Equipment Operating Centre, and the British Army teams also successfully tested a new advanced armor system designed by DSTL and manufactured by RBSL, which will enhance the tank's protection.

The Challenger 3 program continues to make significant progress, marking a series of milestones that bring it closer to becoming a next-generation Main Battle Tank for the British Army.