'Black Night': Upgraded tank for UK army unveiled by BAE Systems
It is hoped that the upgrades to the Challenger 2 tank will ensure that the equipment remains at the top of its game until 2035.
Thursday 4 October 2018 16:25, UK
An upgraded version of the British army's tanks has been developed - complete with night vision and a laser warning system.
BAE Systems has unveiled the enhanced tank, dubbed the "Black Night", in the hope the Ministry of Defence will purchase the upgrades to ensure the army has the best equipment possible.
It is an upgrade of the Challenger 2 tank built by the company in the 1990s, which has been used in Bosnia, Kosovo and Iraq.
Black Night, which would be used alongside current tanks, include a front and rear infrared camera on each tank to allow the gunner to focus on one target while the commander identifies other targets.
Created at BAE's combat vehicles hub in the West Midlands, the upgraded tank can also detect incoming anti-tank missiles or armour penetrating rounds and automatically launches a counter-explosive to neutralise the threat.
It can also identify the source of enemy weapon systems then automatically point the gun at the source.
The tank will also help to save money compared to the current model as it uses "less energy-hungry kit", including regenerative braking in the vehicle's turret which creates power when the gun slows down its position.
Personnel will be able to identify the enemy, target and engage more quickly due to new equipment which controls weapons faster.
Black Night is the result of the Challenger 2 Life Extension Project (LEP), an MoD contract worth more than £7m, to ensure the current tanks will be at the top of their game until 2035.
Simon Jackson, campaign leader for Team Challenger 2 at BAE Systems, said: "The UK is home to some of the world's finest engineering companies, who have pushed the boundaries of combat vehicle design with Black Night.
"We are providing the bulk of this upgrade from home soil, however, we have chosen the best defence companies from around the world to collaborate with also, including names from Canada, France and Germany who bring unique skills and proven technology.
"The British army has our commitment that we will deliver the most capable upgrade possible, and the best value for money."