Ukrainian forces have provided the first confirmed evidence of British Challenger 2 tanks being used in combat during an operation in Russia's Kursk region.
Only 14 Tanks Supplied
The operation, which led to the capture of over 20 Russian soldiers, was documented in a video released by Ukraine's elite 82nd Air Assault Brigade, according to Tech.
The 82nd Brigade, known for its crucial role in Ukraine's defense efforts, released footage showing the Challenger 2 tanks in action, marking a significant moment in the ongoing conflict.
Although there were earlier reports of the brigade's involvement in the Kursk operation, this is the first time the presence of Challenger 2 tanks has been confirmed.
The appearance of Challenger 2 tanks in Kursk is noteworthy, as the UK supplied only 14 of these tanks to Ukraine. According to the Oryx blog, which tracks military equipment losses, two of these tanks have already been destroyed by Russian forces.
Proved itself in Second Gulf War
The Challenger 2, a third-generation British main battle tank, is renowned for its robust Chobham/Dorchester armor, which made it one of the most resilient tanks in the world when it entered service in 1994.
The tank had previously proven its effectiveness during the Second Gulf War and had never been destroyed in combat before the Ukraine conflict.
The Challenger 2's primary weapon is a 120mm L30A1 rifled gun, supported by two 7.62mm machine guns. Powered by a 1,200-horsepower engine, the tank can reach speeds of up to 34 mph, and at over 39 feet long, it weighs more than 60 tons.
In the Kursk operation, the Challenger 2 tanks were used alongside Stryker armored vehicles, helping Ukrainian forces to ambush and capture over 20 enemy soldiers while neutralizing many others. The 82nd Brigade also utilized HMMWV multi-purpose vehicles and specialized Stryker M1132 variants.
