Another main battle tank which deserves some webspace is the Challenger 2, a British MBT developed around the same time as the M1 and Leopard 2. Though similar in outward appearance to the older Challenger MBT, it is basically a brand new vehicle. It is equipped with an L30 120mm rifled gun (Challenger 1s were eventually fitted with this same gun). The British insist on retaining rifled guns (as opposed to smoothbore) due to their belief that the HESH (High Explosive Squashed Head) round still holds an important place on the battlefield. Other than HESH, the L30 also fires APDS and APFSDS. Ammunition is loaded seperately, i.e. projectile and charge. Sixty-four projectiles and 42 charges are carried respectively. A McDonnell Douglas (now Boeing) 7.62mm chain gun is fitted coaxially with the main armament, and a 7.62mm AAMG is fitted on the turret roof. It is also fitted with advanced 'Chobham'layered armor, which incorporates layers of RHA, composites, and depleted uranium(?). It is powered by a Perkins CV-12 1,200hp diesel engine. The Challenger 2 is a very good main battle tank and is said to be the best protected MBT is NATO.
The Challenger 2E was developed with the mission flexibility of the Challenger 2, but with modifications to enhance its capabilities in harsh environments. It has also been coated in RAM to reduce its signature on millimeter-wave radars. The Challenger 2E is intended for export. It is equipped with an MTU powerpack, increased fuel capacity, increased airflow to the engine, and air conditioning. There is also a driver training variant with a fixed turret. The Challenger 2 is currently operated by the UK and Oman. It has completely replaced the Challenger 1 in British service.
