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This vehicle is currently on display at the Museum
The Challenger tank was introduced in the 1980s to supersede the Chieftain. The new tank was heavier and fitted with a 120 mm gun similar to that of the Chieftain. Its main advantages were a more conventional and robust Rolls Royce designed diesel engine, improved suspension, and the new Chobham armour. Electronic systems within the turret were also enhanced. The recovery variant shared the same mechanical components but was designed initially as an ARRV complete with crane. Its layout was similar to the Chieftain and the first few vehicles were on trials as the Gulf War loomed in 1990. They were quickly despatched to Saudi Arabia together with several Chieftain ARRVs and a handful of Centurion ARVs to support the vast array of tanks and self propelled artillery used in the operations. Since then, the Challenger ARRV has been built in greater numbers and is used in most armoured regiments and supporting workshops. The Challenger's Rotzler winch and Atlas crane are similar to those of the Chieftain. A secondary winch is also fitted.
The Museum has the hulk of an early prototype Challenger ARRV which differs in external detail from the final versions. This vehicle arrived in the New Exhibition Hall on 25 May 1999.
Length |
9.64 m (31 ft 8 in) |
Width |
3.85 m (12 ft 8 in) |
Height |
3.13 m (10 ft 4 in) |
Weight |
61.5 tonnes |
Winch |
52 tonnes capacity - direct pull |
Crane lift |
6.5 tonnes - max |
Engine |
Rolls Royce designed Perkins built CV12 diesel |
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Page produced by Peter Eldred - Last updated 24 July 2004