Developed by the United Kingdom and renowned for its exceptional resilience on modern battlefields, the Challenger 2 main battle tank is a key armored asset in both the British and Omani armed forces. First entering service in 1998, the FV4034 Challenger 2 was produced by the land systems division of BAE Systems and is expected to remain in active duty until at least 2035.
A total of 446 Challenger 2 tanks were produced. Weighing in at 75 tons and equipped with advanced armor technologies, the Challenger 2 is considered one of the most heavily protected tanks in the world. Operated by a four-member crew—commander, driver, gunner, and loader—the tank features state-of-the-art command and fire control systems.
One of the tank’s most notable features is its 120mm, 55-caliber rifled L30A1 main gun. This cannon is capable of firing both armor-piercing fin-stabilized discarding sabot (APFSDS) and high-explosive squash head (HESH) rounds. In addition to the main gun, the Challenger 2 is also equipped with two 7.62mm machine guns. It carries a total of 49 rounds for the main gun and 4,200 rounds for the machine guns.
The Challenger 2’s electronic systems are powered by a Canadian-made digital fire control computer, delivering high precision on target. Its thermal imaging system, laser rangefinder, and panoramic camera enable superior performance during night operations. The turret can complete a full 360-degree rotation in just 9 seconds.
Among the tank’s protective features is second-generation Chobham armor, also known as Dorchester. This can be further reinforced with explosive reactive armor (ERA) and additional bar armor when necessary. The tank is also equipped with an NBC (nuclear, biological, chemical) defense system. Its specially designed hull helps minimize radar cross-section, making it more difficult to detect.
The Challenger 2 has seen active duty in conflict zones such as Iraq, Bosnia, and Kosovo. Notably, in 2006, a Challenger 2 tank in Iraq survived a direct RPG attack, sustaining frontal underbody damage but managing to return to base. Only one crew member suffered minor injuries. The tank was repaired and quickly returned to service—an incident often cited as proof of the Challenger 2’s battlefield toughness. To date, only one Challenger 2 has ever been rendered inoperable in combat, and that was due to friendly fire.
With a top speed of 59 km/h and an operational range of 450 kilometers, the tank is powered by a 1,200 horsepower Perkins CV-12 diesel engine. Its power-to-weight ratio of 19.2 hp/ton enables it to maneuver effectively across a wide range of terrains.
With its strategic firepower, technological superiority, and exceptional protection capabilities, the Challenger 2 continues to serve as a critical component of modern military doctrine.
