latest hand controllers and some intelligent flat panels should provide an instantaneous feel of a more modern vehicle. With greater control mixed in with better targeting systems and sensors, this should all add up to a vastly improved experience for those operating the Challenger 2 and make them more efficient.
It’s not just current technology that the Challenger 2 is angled towards. When looking at a vehicle that will be in service for another near 2 decades – it’s also future-proofing the Challenger 2 that needs considering.
The Challenger 2 will be capable of operating with unmanned ground and aerial attacks – making it potentially an autonomous vehicle. This could lead to the tank learning behaviours and becoming more aware of situations – learning to defend itself or attack in a variety of scenarios.
Its armour and weaponry also need to be looked at further. Upgrading these help build stabilised sighting systems for the commander or gunner operating the tank. These tie in with the other internal technological upgrades.
Other upgrades can depend on where from the suppliers seek their inspiration from. It could be from other tanks such as the Ajax or the Leopard 2, or come from further research or just flashes of genius.
With the future of Britain’s most iconic battle vehicle at stake, there is a lot to look at and to take into consideration. Hopefully, both suppliers participating in the LEP go into this with all guns blazing.
OCTOBER 2018 | MANE AEROSPACE, DEFENCE & SPACE | 13