Some interesting info here. A poster from Babcock, who are in charge of the HAAIP engine upgrade for the Challenger 3 state that the CV-12-9A runs at 1500hp.
The only issue, the source used is “Information from google” (as seen as the bottom).
So sadly its not going to be a primary source, but its still from the company which has actually done the engine upgrades. Just posting this as its quite interesting, I’m not saying its confirmed at 1500hp.
A zoomed out view also shows a photo of a CV-12-9A engine which the sheet is from.
5 Likes
1500hp Is unrealistic in any aspect, it is impossible for any tank to have such a powerful engine, this is a clear marketing lie))))
3 Likes
Marketing lie, horsepower reduced to 1000hp
1 Like
Does anyone know what the circled red area is? it dosen’t seem to be present on the Challenger 2’s engine. Maybe im missing something though.
I can confirm at least for the CR1’s CV12 that that’s where the main engine air intake and air cleaner sit, and it’s likely the same for CR2. Struggling to find any images of the air intake system.
The part circled on the 9a is looking a lot like what can be seen on the CR2E’s 1500hp variant.
1 Like
Interesting, do you think they’ve reused the improved cooling from the 1500hp variant?
I think its more than likely. Though it looks a bit different, I’d imagine they’ve upgraded some components to a more modern standard.
It does appear that the 9A only has one of those cooling units on the left as opposed to the two of the Challenger 2E CV12
The Challenger 2 also has a similar blue box, I’m not sure if this is the same thing.
Btw, as of now, unfortunately it does seem that the current intention is staying with the 1200hp power back, with reliability and maintenance improvements being the focus. There isn’t any intention to upgrade the CV12 beyond what is happening, it’s the end of the road for CV12.
1 Like
It’s a shame if that’s the case, from what I heard one of the main crew complaints was that the tank was underpowered.
1 Like
It’s not all bad. I’m hoping that just means they want other options. But that’s some pretty generous hopium.
1 Like
We can cope, but isn’t it a bit late in the program to be thinking about different engines?
From what i have heard it will be 1500hp
1 Like
Depends how into the future they are thinking.
Given we have had ABSOLUTELY ZERO involvement in any future tank programs so far. We may be going down our own path.
With our recent expansion of UK manufacturing it does make sense.
Losing our domestic tank manufacturing would really be a shame, but we shall see.
They aren’t thinking at all. They are using a 120mm and sights that are only good now instead of 130mm and sights that are super now that will be good then
The sights are fine? Same as being used on ajax which is great for commonality and parts. Megapixel thermals… what sights would you be wanting off the shelf?
Because the 130mm isn’t a mature system for a tank entering service in less than 2 years from now. The turret design you can be sure incorporates growth potential to the 130mm gun. Currently L/55A1 with DM83 is going to be more than fine for current threats.
The sights on the Challenger 3 are some of the best in the world. Third generation for gunner and commander with great zoom. Even the driver has a thermal imaging camera.
The Challenger 3 turret as far as I know is also able to fit the 130mm. Using the 120mm is a better choice at the moment as the entire point of the tank is for NATO interoperability, and no NATO tanks currently use the 130mm. The Chally 3 with its L55A1 and DM83 will have the best firepower of any tank in the world (alongside the Leopard 2A8).
3 Likes
