UK MOD Extends Challenger 2 Structural Assessment Contract

Challenger 2

UK MoD has exercised the option to extend Pearson Engineering’s structural assessment contract for further vehicles. The extension will see a further 60 Challenger 2 vehicles arrive at Armstrong Works in Newcastle upon Tyne for assessment following successful completion of verification trials on an initial 4 vehicles.

The project has involved close working relationships between Pearson Engineering, MoD DE&S and DSTL and has allowed the quick and efficient delivery of accurate results back to the customer.

Structural assessment of the vehicles is being carried out at the Armstrong Works facility in Newcastle upon Tyne which is set up and optimised for a range of Assured Manufacturing capabilities including; Armoured Structure Manufacture, Armour Systems and Special Metals Manufacture, Repair & Overhaul, Inspection Services and Assembly, Integration & Test.

Shoreland Access have developed a testing procedure with Pearson Engineering and will provide specialist Non-destructive testing capability to the company.

Director of Shoreland Access, Neil Cox said "We are delighted to be awarded a further 60 Challenger 2 vehicles to be tested to a procedure that we developed. It shows the pragmatism and technical expertise that Shoreland possesses"

Steve Fenton, Pearson Engineering Project Manager said “Pearson Engineering Ltd are very pleased to receive the award for all contract options for the Challenger 2 fleet assessment. Together with our partners and subcontractors, we have demonstrated to the MOD and to DSTL that we have the facilities, capability and know-how to be able to manage armoured vehicles and to develop procedures that provide the MOD with the data they need. It is also great to be working at Armstrong Works facility and to have Challenger 2 back here in Newcastle.”