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2ND DRAFT
105mm Abbot SP gun, the 155mm M109 and possibly the 175mm M107
The FH 70 will replace the 5.5 inch medium gun.
equipments.
Main Battle Tank
34. [Concept studies of the future main battle tank are being
undertaken in co-operation with the Federal Republic of Germany;
the studies include unconventional designs. It is planned to
agree in due course a single concept for joint development.
Development of the gun is more advanced, and it is hoped largely
to standardise tank guns and ammunition within NATO as a result
of a tripartite evaluation of British, American and German designs
at trials which began in February this year].
Other Combat Vehicles
35.
Prototypes of the combat engineer tractor are undergoing
trials. This equipment will enable the Royal Engineers to perform
many of their tasks protected by armour; it will dig, bulldoze
and winch, lay trackway, handle pallets, and launch pontoons. It
is amphibious, and it has a rocket-propelled anchor, allowing it
to winch itself up steep banks: it should provide considerable
help to mechanised units in river-crossing operations.
36. Other projects in progress include:
a. a mechanised infantry combat vehicle, which will
replace the FV 430 series;
b.
a new range of vehicles for battlefield logistic
support; and
C.
improvements for Chieftain including an advanced
fire-control system.
Mines
37.
Development is well advanced of a new anti-tank mine, with
increased lethality, and of an associated anti-personnel mine.
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