The first Challenger 3 prototype has been undergoing tests in Germany (Picture: DE&S)

Land vehicles

Why Army's first Challenger 3 prototype was sent to Germany for trials

A minister has revealed why the British Army's first Challenger 3 main battle tank prototype was sent to Germany from the UK for trials.

Defence Minister James Cartlidge said the vehicle was taken to Germany for a small number of tests using Rheinmetall proprietary ammunition which would "not be cost effective to clear on UK ranges for important but limited trial use".

Mr Cartlidge made the comments in response to questions from shadow defence secretary John Healey who asked why the prototype was sent to Germany and whether the UK has the full facilities needed to undertake the trials.

"The UK has the necessary facilities to undertake Challenger 3 trials and most of the trial activity will take place in the UK," Mr Cartlidge said.

"The first pre-production vehicle was sent to Germany for a small number of trials that use Rheinmetall proprietary ammunition which would not be cost effective to clear on UK ranges for important but limited trial use."

The minister also confirmed the remaining Challenger 3 prototypes will undergo full tests in the UK, including firing trials.

Watch: Expert says he's found the ideal tank weight – and warns Challenger 3 is too heavy.

With plans for 140 tanks to be built and delivered to the British Army, the Challenger 3 tank is poised to become the cornerstone of the Army's warfighting capability.

The prototype is undergoing rigorous testing to ensure it meets British Army standards before full-scale production.

Equipped with advanced features such as full digitisation, all-weather capability, increased speed, and improved firepower, the Challenger 3 promises to elevate the British Army's armoured capabilities.

The Challenger 3 is being developed jointly by UK-based BAE Systems and Rheinmetall, Europe's largest ammunition producer, headquartered in Germany.