Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land Confirms Progress on Challenger 3 With Live Fire Testing

Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land Confirms Progress on Challenger 3 With Live Fire Testing

(IN BRIEF) Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land has successfully completed the first crewed live firing trials of Challenger 3, marking a key milestone in the delivery of the British Army’s next-generation Main Battle Tank. Conducted at a UK Ministry of Defence training site, the trials followed a phased testing approach and validated the integration of the 120mm L55A1 smoothbore cannon. The achievement demonstrates significant programme maturity and reflects close collaboration between industry and the Ministry of Defence, as Challenger 3 moves into further trials ahead of operational service. The programme supports advanced manufacturing in the UK and involves a broad European supply chain.

(PRESS RELEASE) DÜSSELDORF, 21-Jan-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL) has reached a major programme milestone with the successful completion of the first crewed live firing trials of Challenger 3, advancing the British Army’s next-generation Main Battle Tank toward operational service.

The trials were conducted at a Ministry of Defence training facility and represent the first time in more than three decades that a newly developed Main Battle Tank has fired in the UK. This phase of testing forms part of a broader assurance programme designed to validate the vehicle’s safety, performance, and system integration before it enters frontline service.

Testing followed a staged approach, beginning with remotely operated firing before progressing to live firing with RBSL personnel inside the turret. This methodical progression reflects the emphasis placed on risk reduction, system robustness, and crew safety throughout the Challenger 3 development programme.

Challenger 3 is fitted with the Rheinmetall-manufactured 120mm L55A1 smoothbore cannon, capable of firing the latest kinetic energy anti-armour rounds as well as programmable multi-purpose ammunition. The successful completion of these trials confirms the integration and functionality of the weapon system within the vehicle platform.

The achievement underscores the maturity of the Challenger 3 programme and highlights the close cooperation between industry and the Ministry of Defence. The tank is now set to enter further testing phases as it progresses toward becoming the core armoured capability within the British Army’s modernisation effort.

Designed and manufactured at RBSL’s facility in Telford, Challenger 3 reflects advanced military vehicle production capabilities and extensive collaboration across the UK and European defence supply chain. The programme brings together expertise from allied nations and specialist suppliers to deliver a platform focused on enhanced lethality, survivability, and digital integration.

Under the current contract, 148 modernised Challenger 3 tanks will be delivered to the British Army. The programme is being delivered under a contract valued at more than £800 million and has supported significant investment in UK defence manufacturing, including substantial job creation within RBSL and across its supply network.

Media Contact:

Oliver Hoffmann
Head of Public Relations
Rheinmetall AG
Tel.: +49-(0)211 473 4748

SOURCE: RHEINMETALL AG