Challenger 3's firepower on display as it takes to the range in Germany

The power and accuracy of the British Army's new Challenger 3 main battle tank has captured on video for the first time during its initial live-firing trials.

Footage released by Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL) showed the success of the Challenger 3's main gun during tests conducted in Germany.

"The trials, led by RBSL and Rheinmetall are taking place at the Rheinmetall ranges for consistency with Nato Reference Standards for the new 120mm smoothbore gun and ammunition," said RBSL.

• New gun put to the test as Challenger 3 main battle tank fires live rounds for first time
• Challenger 3: Live-firing study to inform new tank's design
• Challenger 3: Army's lethal new main battle tank rolls off the production line

"As part of the British Army modernisation agenda, the vehicles that will be delivered in collaboration with Defence Equipment and Support will have advanced armour, APS increased firepower and state-of-the-art technology, making it one of Europe's most lethal and survivable tanks," said RBSL.

"The Challenger 3 will be at the heart of the British Army's Armoured Brigade Combat Teams, alongside Ajax and Boxer, and is critical to the Army's warfighting capability and the UK's contribution to Nato deterrence."

The first pre-production Challenger 3 rolled off the production line in Telford in January 2024.

The footage shows the vehicle firing its main 120mm smoothbore gun and firing behind a smokescreen that had been laid down on the training area.

The Challenger 3 began its live-fire trials in April this year in northern Germany, a significant milestone in the vehicle's development.

The Royal Armoured Corps is due to receive 140 of the main battle tanks, which will remain in service until at least 2040.