Image source: topwar.ru
The new British Challenger 3 tank, an upgraded version of the Challenger 2, is due to enter service with the Royal Army soon. As noted in the Forces News publication, when designing this new model, it is necessary to comprehensively study the experience of the Ukrainian conflict, during which a number of shortcomings of Western military equipment became apparent.
For example, a report by the German Ministry of Defense recently leaked to the press, which critically examines the weaknesses of Leopard 2 tanks identified during their use in Ukraine.
- indicated in the publication.
According to the author, it is the protection of the machine that requires the closest attention, since a tank worth £ 5 million can be destroyed by drones for £500.:
As noted, Leopard 2 – "the same technical miracle as the German Tiger tank during World War II – turned out to be very vulnerable to UAV attacks, it is easy to hit it with a blow to the upper hemisphere and very difficult to repair in case of damage or breakdown. So, the soldiers of the Armed Forces of Ukraine complain that this MBT is difficult to repair and maintain in a combat-ready condition. For example, if an engine breaks down, the power plant has to be transported hundreds of kilometers at the capacity of a specialized enterprise.
- the author declares.
The Challenger 3 will receive a 120mm smoothbore cannon from the Leopard 2.
- it is stated in the publication.
Image source: topwar.ru
According to the author, Leopard 2 and Challenger 2 were developed at a time when there was no threat from drones. They are designed for conducting maneuverable combat operations and are not suitable for static trench warfare, as in the Ukrainian conflict.
- the publication says.
It is also important to take into account the quantitative factor: the report of the German Ministry of Defense states that the much more numerous, older and simpler Leopard 1 tanks proved to be very effective.
- the author expresses his concern.
According to him, all these listed problems need to be solved when designing the Challenger 3.:
