Name: British Challenger II 1:35 Model Kit by Trumpeter
Brand: SCH Models
SKU: TRU00308
Price: 21.99 GBP
Availability: InStock

British Challenger II 1:35 Model Kit by Trumpeter

£21.99

Model Features

1:35 scale plastic model kit
Accurately represents the British Challenger II Main Battle Tank, the modern armoured vehicle that has formed the backbone of the British Army’s armoured forces since the late 1990s
Detailed representation of the production Challenger 2 fitted with the distinctive angular turret and advanced armour protection
Highly detailed hull and turret featuring realistic armour panels, weld lines, surface textures, and vehicle fittings
Accurately reproduced 120mm L30A1 rifled main gun with detailed barrel and mantlet assembly
Detailed turret including commander’s cupola, machine gun mounts, sights, and smoke grenade launchers
Detailed engine deck with cooling grills, access panels, and rear hull fittings
Includes realistic suspension system with detailed road wheels, drive sprockets, and idler wheels
Detailed track assemblies for realistic positioning and display
Includes external equipment including storage bins, fuel cans, tools, and tow cables
Photo-etched parts included for enhanced scale realism
Clear parts included for optical equipment and lights
Waterslide decal sheet featuring authentic British Army markings
Precision-moulded parts suitable for detailed painting and weathering
Ideal for modern British armour collections, Gulf War displays, or contemporary military diorama projects. (turn0search1)

Specifications

Brand: Trumpeter
Scale: 1:35
Subject: British Challenger II Main Battle Tank
Material: Injection-moulded plastic
Skill Level: Suitable for intermediate modellers
Paint & Glue Required: Yes (sold separately)
Recommended Age: 14+
Kit Number: 00308
Vehicle Type: Main Battle Tank
Crew: 4
Main Armament: 120mm L30A1 rifled tank gun
Secondary Armament: 7.62mm machine guns
Parts: Approximately 400+ parts
Track Type: Track assemblies included
Photo-Etched Parts: Included
Model Length: Approximately 333mm
Model Width: Approximately 102mm (turn0search1)

What's in the Box

Plastic sprues
Detailed upper and lower hull components
Challenger 2 turret assembly
120mm L30A1 main gun components
Suspension and running gear parts
Track assemblies
Engine deck and rear hull components
External vehicle equipment
Photo-etched detail parts
Clear parts
Waterslide decal sheet with British Army markings
Illustrated assembly instructions (turn0search1)

History of the Original Vehicle

The Challenger 2 Main Battle Tank is the primary armoured fighting vehicle developed for the British Army to replace the earlier Challenger 1 and provide a highly protected, accurate, and reliable main battle tank for modern warfare.

Development of the Challenger 2 began during the late 1980s, with Vickers Defence Systems designing a new tank based on experience gained from the Challenger 1 programme. Although it shares a similar appearance with its predecessor, the Challenger 2 introduced a completely redesigned turret, improved armour protection, upgraded fire-control systems, and numerous reliability improvements. (turn0search3)

The Challenger 2 entered British Army service in 1998 and became one of the most advanced tanks in NATO service. The vehicle was designed around survivability, accuracy, and crew protection, with its advanced Chobham-derived Dorchester armour providing exceptional protection against battlefield threats.

Its primary weapon is the 120mm L30A1 rifled tank gun, a unique feature among modern Western tanks. Unlike most NATO tanks that adopted smoothbore guns, the Challenger 2 retained a rifled weapon capable of firing a range of ammunition types, including armour-piercing fin-stabilised discarding sabot (APFSDS) rounds and high-explosive ammunition. ([turn0search3])

Powered by the Perkins CV12 diesel engine, producing approximately 1,200 horsepower, the Challenger 2 combines strong mobility with excellent battlefield endurance. Its advanced suspension system allows the vehicle to operate effectively across difficult terrain while maintaining firing stability.

The Challenger 2 has seen operational service during major British military deployments, most notably during Operation Telic in Iraq in 2003. During the conflict, Challenger 2 tanks provided armoured support for coalition forces and demonstrated the effectiveness of their protection systems in combat conditions. ([turn0search4])

One of the Challenger 2’s most notable characteristics is its emphasis on crew survivability. The tank features advanced armour protection, ammunition storage designed to reduce the risk of catastrophic failure, and modern fire-control technology allowing accurate engagement of targets in day and night conditions.

The vehicle has undergone several upgrade programmes throughout its service life, including improvements to armour, electronics, communications, and battlefield systems. These upgrades have allowed the Challenger 2 to remain relevant despite advances in armoured warfare technology.

Although produced in smaller numbers than some other NATO main battle tanks, the Challenger 2 has gained a strong reputation for reliability, protection, and accuracy. Its performance in Iraq demonstrated the advantages of its heavily protected design and capable weapon system.

The Challenger 2 remains an important symbol of British armoured capability and continues to serve with the British Army alongside ongoing modernisation efforts. For modellers, it offers a distinctive modern armour subject with its unique turret design, large rifled gun, and unmistakable British military appearance.