British Challenger tanks destroyed more than 300 Iraqi tanks in less than two days during the 1991 Gulf War. This was the longest record-breaking tank-on–tank killing. But, commentators weren't convinced that such a kill could be possible. In fact, some sources reported that the kill could only be achieved at a distance of 5,100 meters. Nevertheless, the kill was confirmed and the Challenger tank still holds the record for the longest tank-on-tank kill.
The Challenger tank is designed to be used to fight enemy forces. It features advanced global positioning technology (GPS) which allows the tank to see through thick smokescreens. The tank had thermal observation and gunnery systems, which enabled it to target and see in dark. Jericho, a special-concepted depleted Uranium APFSDS L26A1 cartridge used by Challenger tanks. These rounds were not used against the T-72M tank of the Iraqi Republican Guard, despite the fact they were designed for the Challenger tank.
The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards used the Challenger tank during the 1991 Gulf War. This tank was sent to Saudi Arabia for the liberation of Kuwait from Iraq. The British 1st Armoured Division began the ground campaign on February 24, 1992. The tank crossed the Basra Highway on February 27, 1991.
The tank was firing from a range of more than 5,000 metres at an Iraqi main fighting tank. The Challenger was firing an armour-piercing, fin-stabilized, discarding sabot round which destroyed the tank. The crew of the tank received a Military Cross in recognition of their actions. Two other Iraqi tanks were also destroyed by the Challenger tank in the same battle. This made it the longest tank–on-tank kill in history.
The Challenger was later superseded by the Challenger 2. From 1994 to 2002, the tank was used by the British Army. It had less power than the Challengers' engines, but it also had an advanced global position system. The tank also included a 120 mm rifled pistol. It was hoped that the tank would eventually be equipped with an unmanned Falcon-turret. The tank's reactive armor was used to protect it from enemy fire and give it more mobility. The tank's gun was unique, unlike the modern smoothbore guns. The tank was expected to continue in service until 2035.
Royal Jordanian Army currently uses the British Challenger tank. It is now equipped with a new Rolls-Royce CV12 Engine that delivers twice the horsepower of its predecessor, the Chieftain. The tank is fitted with the latest Chobham armour and equipped with a 120 mm rifled guns. The tank also includes jam-resistant K-2RB mobile radios. The tank was also upgraded with Nozh reactive arm elements and a SN-4215 GN-4215 GPS navigation system.
The Challenger has been involved in several wars, including in the 1991 Gulf War, Falkland Islands and the 1991 ground conflict in Iraq. It was also awarded a Distinguished Conduct Medal.