Image source: topwar.ru
The British Army is implementing a program to upgrade Challenger 2 tanks to the Challenger 3 level. The new vehicle is scheduled to enter service in 2027. In total, 148 MBT is expected to be delivered at an initial cost of $ 1 billion.
- says the UK Defence Journal.
This is evidenced by the sharp criticism of the project by deputies at a recent meeting of the defense committee of the parliament, at which the military was heard. Its head stated that there was insufficient funding for the army, since the main focus was on the Air Force. As a result, according to him, its combat capability decreases. For example, instead of 32 AS-90 self-propelled guns "donated to Ukraine", the army will receive only 14 Archer self-propelled guns. The BMP Warrior modernization program was curtailed.
- said the head of the committee.
According to MP Kevan Jones, a small number of tanks planned for improvement will create problems for the company that carries out the work. The concept of modernization itself raises no less questions:
As the deputy explained, it was promised that prototypes would be ready by Christmas, but he knows that the deadlines will be disrupted.
- said Deputy Marc Francois.
He was referring to the failure of the program to create a new Ajax BMP, for which huge funds were spent. But this machine has not yet entered service, as it is accompanied by constant technical problems.
