A new high-performance kinetic-energy (KE) 120mm projectile with a tungsten penetrator has been developed by BAE Systems RO Defence in conjunction with Vickers Defence Systems for Challenger 1 and 2 main battle tanks (MBTs). This will be offered as an export alternative to the 20-year-old L23 tungsten 120mm armoured-piercing fin-stabilised discarding sabot (APFSDS) round in service with the UK, Jordan and Oman. Unofficially designated L28, the new round is derived from a tungsten-penetrator KE projectile introduced in 1990 as a trials and commissioning surrogate for the British Army's L27A1 third-generation APFSDS projectile (CHARM2), which has a depleted uranium (DU) penetrator. Accordingly the L28's weight and dimensions have to be similar to that of the L27A1, notwithstanding the former's tungsten nickel iron penetrator made by RO Specialty Metals. Both also use the same L16 charge, filled with FX insensitive propellant. It is understood that "several hundred" L28s have been fired, although it is unlikely to be fully assessed to UK Ordnance Board standards until a customer contract is received.
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