The Trophy Active Protection System (APS) will undergo testing and integration with the Challenger 3 tanks to provide advanced protection against rocket and missile threats. It will also identify the source of hostile fire, enabling an immediate response. The system’s lightning-fast capabilities allow it to detect and destroy incoming rockets or missiles in less than a second by firing its own ammunition, DE&S said in a press release.
Israeli defence company Rafael Advanced Defense Systems will supply the Trophy system, which has successfully completed three weeks of assessment phase trials on the Challenger 3 representative system. The trials involved a total of 25 shots, including live intercept shots. This new contract will secure multiple Trophy systems, as well as countermeasures and test equipment necessary for the qualification and integration activities planned for the upcoming demonstration phase.
The manufacturing of the Challenger 3 tanks is being carried out by Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL), which has generated numerous job opportunities throughout the UK supply chain, supporting the government’s focus on economic growth. The Challenger 3 tanks are expected to enter service in 2027.
By procuring these “long-lead items” early, the Demonstration Phase is set to commence in 2024. Rafael Defence Systems and RBSL will oversee the Demonstration Phase as the Design Authority for the Challenger 3 tanks. The testing will take place at Rafael’s facility in Israel as well as various UK test ranges.
