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Always wanted to drive a tank? Get to grips with the awesome Challenger 2 as part of a four-person crew.
A powerful engine, heavy armour and massive firepower: that’s the Challenger 2 Main Battle Tank. As a member of a Tank Crew you’ll drive and operate this amazing vehicle as part of a four-strong team. You’ll get to work in different roles including driver, gunner and loader. Eventually you can even qualify to command your own tank. But first, you’ll get first-class training that will teach you how to look after your tank.
The Royal Armoured Corps (RAC) provides the armour capability of the British Army. It combines speed, momentum, firepower and reconnaissance capabilities with armoured fighting vehicles, such as the Challenger 2 Main Battle Tank and Jackal Fighting Vehicle.
Key Responsibilities
Get specialist training in tank warfare and armoured combat
Focus on combat
Be part of a four-person crew who live, work and fight from the British Army’s most impressive armoured vehicle
Take on the only role in the British Army that allows you to become a tank driver
Enjoy a varied role and opportunities to travel
Have any questions? Talk with us
Reserve (part time)
Entry requirements
Age:
From 17 years & 9 months to 42 years & 6 months
Qualifications:
No formal qualifications needed
Basic physical fitness assessment:
Mid Thigh Pull 76kg
Medicine Ball Throw 3.1m
MSFT (beep test) level 8.06
Training for the role
Step 1
You start Basic Training, this consists of two main courses and some online training packages. You can book on the courses to fit around your daily life, so it could take you several months to finish your basic training.
Module 1: Foundation Training. 5 alternate residential weekends Fri - Sun at an Army training centre OR a nine-day residential course.
Module 2: Battlecamp. 15-day residential course at an Army training establishment. You will learn fieldcraft, Skill at Arms, fitness training, qualities of a soldier, military knowledge, Battlefield casualty drills, individual health and education. This will culminate with a Passing Off Parade which your family and friends can attend to celebrate your success.
Step 2
You’ll then go on to learn how to drive, maintain and fire the Challenger 2. We’ll give you the same annual training tests as Regular soldiers – and the same opportunities to join in Adventurous Training and sport.
Qualifications you could get after training
Car licence (Cat B)
Track licence (Cat C)
Level 2 Technical Certificate in Engineering (Intermediate)
Level 3 Technical Diploma in Engineering (Advanced)
Pay & benefits
You'll get paid a day rate according to your rank, starting from £63.27 in training and once you're a Private and increasing as you rise through the ranks. This includes being paid for weekly drill nights. Plus, if you complete all of your annual training, you're entitled to a tax-free lump sum called a bounty.
How to Apply
When you decide to apply, your local unit will help you through the process - you don't need to wait until you've finished Army Assessment to get involved.
To join, you have to apply online. The application process will take some time, but you can also ring the unit you're interested in joining - the team there will help often invite you to join them for drill nights, and you'll get support for your application.