Chieftain Main Battle Tank: Development and Active Service from Prototype to Mk.11

The Chieftain was a radical evolutionary development of the successful Centurion line of tanks that had emerged at the end of the Second World War. The British had learned during the war that their tanks often lacked sufficient protection and firepower compared to those fielded by the enemy, and that this had led to high casualty levels when faced with the superior German tanks in World War II.

Chieftain was designed to be as well protected as possible and to be equipped with a powerful 120 mm rifled gun. The heavy armour came at the price of reduced mobility, chiefly due to engine power limitations, which was perhaps the Chieftain's main drawback.

About the Series

Photosniper is a classic series of highly illustrated photo books on the best machines of war, creating, with numerous images, a close-up, walk-around view for each aircraft or vehicle. With emphasis on the key features of each machine, including their variations, artwork, markings, insignia and modifications, customising and creating a model could not be easier. Includes a free decal sheet. See more