Challenger 3 120mm L55A1 Smoothbore Gun

Plastic model kit of a British Challenger 3 main battle tank featuring a 120mm L55A1 smoothbore gun

• 1:35 scale
• Includes clear parts, vinyl parts, and photo-etched parts
• Hatches and optic covers can be displayed open or closed
• Movable individual-link tracks
• Unassembled and unpainted
• Paint and glue not included

The Challenger 3 is the British main battle tank currently under development and entering service; it represents a comprehensive evolution of the Challenger 2. Central to the modernization is a completely redesigned turret equipped with a Rheinmetall 120mm L55A1 smoothbore gun, replacing the Challenger 2's previous 120mm L30A1 rifled gun. The new gun enables the use of modern NATO ammunition, including the programmable DM11 multi-purpose round and the high-performance DM73 kinetic energy round. This gives the Challenger 3 significantly greater firepower and enhanced effectiveness against modern armored targets.

The Challenger 3 features an upgraded fire control system with improved thermal imagers and observation systems for the commander and gunner. Its "hunter-killer" capability allows the commander to independently acquire targets and hand them over to the gunner. At the same time, the vehicle's digital connectivity has been significantly improved, allowing for better integration into modern command and information systems.

Protection has also been fundamentally overhauled. The new turret features modular add-on armor, and the tank is slated to receive a modern Trophy active protection system (APS). This system is designed to neutralize incoming anti-tank guided missiles and other threats before they impact the tank. Protection is further enhanced by improved measures against mines and IEDs, as well as an optimized interior layout.

Improvements have also been made to the running gear and propulsion system. The Challenger 3 features, among other things, an upgraded suspension and running gear system as well as a revised electrical architecture. Despite the added weight, these changes are intended to improve or maintain mobility compared to the Challenger 2. The crew continues to consist of four personnel, as the Challenger 3 - unlike many modern main battle tanks - retains a manual loading system.

Consequently, the Challenger 3 is not a completely new design but rather an extensive modernization of the Challenger 2. The combination of a 120mm L55A1 smoothbore gun, modern ammunition, digital fire-control technology, enhanced armor protection, and an active protection system is designed to provide the British Army with a state-of-the-art main battle tank for the coming decades.