Osprey New Vanguard 80 : Chieftain Main Battle Tank 1965-2003

The concept of the Main Battle Tank (MBT) emerged with development of the Centurion Universal tank at the end of World War II. The Chieftain incorporated significant innovations including a reclining driver position and two-piece ammunition for greater survivability. The tank entered service in 1967 and was the heaviest armed and armoured MBT within the NATO alliance. The Chieftain saw combat during the Iran-Iraq War, with the Kuwaitis during the 1990 Iraqi invasion and with the British Army during the Gulf War of 1990-91 as special-purpose variants. This book explores the design, development and operation of one of the most influential vehicles used in modern warfare. Text by Simon Dunstan with illustrations by Peter Sarson.

Contents

• Introduction
• Design and Development
• Operational History
• Colour Plate Commentary
• Bibliography
• Index