WesWorld

A look ahead at what new weapons and vehicles will enter service next year and updates on research and development programmes.

Armoured Vehicles
FV402: an observation vehicle with roof armour and armoured hatches, a variant of the FV401 Cambridge tracked carrier, to be issued to RA units within armoured units.

Carrier Tracked No.5 Mk I FV420: Designed in 1950 by the Armoured Vehicle Research and Development Establishment to replace the Oxford and Cambridge and to supplement the smaller FV310 and form the basis of a family of support vehicles. It is designed to carry a fully armed section of infantry in an enclosed hull and is armed with one TADEN MG on an AA mount. Planned to enter service from 1953.

Machine Guns
7.92mm BESA Medium Machine Gun No.2 Mk I/ Mk I*, development of this new machine gun by the Birmingham Small Arms Company to replace the venerable Vickers Mk. I began in late 1948 and the first prototypes began firing trials in 1949. The gun was designed principally for use in armoured vehicles, either as a fixed co-axial weapon or as a pintle-mounted weapon for AA use. As the Royal Armoured Corps supply chain is separate, it was decided to adopt a new cartridge for use in armoured vehicles, the 7.92mm x 57 Mauser. The gun entered full scale production in 1950.
Weight: 47 lb (21 kg) empty
Length: 43.5 in (1,100 mm)
Barrel length: 29 in (740 mm), 4-groove rifling with Right Hand twist.
Cartridge: 7.92×57mm Mauser
Action: gas automatic
Rate of fire: 450-550rpm (Mk I), 750-850rpm (Mk I*)
Muzzle velocity: 2,700 ft/s (823 m/s)
Feed system: 225 metal link belt

I have re-organised my FV series of fighting vehicles as follows:

FV200 Series

The FV200 series was designed by the Armoured Vehicle Research and Development Establishment in 1944 as the ‘Universal Tank’, an adaptable chassis that could form the basis of a new heavy tank and a series of heavy tracked armoured vehicles as self-propelled artillery and assorted support vehicles. The suspension was of the modified Horstmann type.

FV201 Medium Gun Tank No.1 Mk.I Centurion
Designed by the Armoured Vehicle Research and Development Establishment in 1944 as the ‘Universal Tank’, from late 1945 NEE built a batch of 50 tanks which served as the first production type and for trials work.
Weight: 48 tons (48.7 tonnes)
Dimensions: length (hull) 25ft 2in (7.6m); length overall 31ft 10in (9.7m); width 11ft (3.37m); height 9ft 8in (2.94m)
Engine: 650hp Orenda Ursa V-12 petrol
Speed: road 22mph (35km/h); cross-country 15mph (24km/h)
Range: road 115 miles (185km)
Mobility: fording depth 4ft 9in (1.4m); vertical obstacle 3ft (91cm); trench crossing 11ft (3.3m)
Armour: hull front 76mm; hull sides 51mm; hull rear 38mm; hull floor 20mm; turret 152-38mm
Armament: 1x 17pdr (77mm) QF Mk.I gun, 1x 20mm Oerlikon FFB Mk.III cannon (co-axial), 1x .303in (7.7mm) Vickers No.3 Mk.IIIA machine-gun (pintle mount)
Crew: 4

FV201 Medium Gun Tank No.1 Mk.II Centurion
This was the first main production version featuring a new fully cast turret which was armed with the new 20pdr QF Mk.I gun for improved anti-armour hitting power and a co-axial machine-gun, the cannon having probed problematic to aim and with fume extraction issues. The armour was also increased slightly and skirt plates were fitted to defeat HEAT rounds and cut dust when on the move. Production of 200 tanks began in 1946 by Royal Ordnance and Leyland. Exports were made to Ireland (since refitted to Mk.IV standard) and to Switzerland as the Mk.IIH with a Swiss 88mm gun and a 700hp Skoda V-12 diesel.
Weight: 51 tons (52 tonnes)
Dimensions: length (hull) 25ft 2in (7.6m); length overall 32ft (9.8m); width 11.1ft (3.38m); height 9ft 10.5in (3.01m)
Engine: 650hp Orenda Ursa V-12 petrol
Speed: road 21mph (33km/h); cross-country 15mph (24km/h)
Range: road 115 miles (185km)
Mobility: fording depth 4ft 9in (1.4m); vertical obstacle 3ft (91cm); trench crossing 11ft (3.3m)
Armour: hull front 118mm; hull sides 51mm; hull rear 51mm; hull floor 20mm; turret 152-38mm, skirts 6.5mm
Armament: 1x 20pdr (84mm) QF Mk.I gun, 1x .50in (12.7mm) Vickers No.1 Mk.IIC machine-gun (co-axial), 1x .303in (7.7mm) Vickers No.3 Mk.IIIA machine-gun (pintle mount)
Crew: 4

FV201 Medium Gun Tank No.1 Mk.III Centurion
This was the close support variant of the Mk.II which differed only in having the 3.7in howitzer for infantry support, it is also capable of destroying armour using HEAT rounds. Production of 80 tanks began in 1946 by Royal Ordnance.
Armament: 1x 3.7in (95mm) QF Mk.II howitzer, 1x .50in (12.7mm) Vickers No.1 Mk.IIC machine-gun (co-axial), 2x .303in (7.7mm) Vickers No.3 Mk.IIIA machine-gun (2x pintle mounts)

FV201 Medium Gun Tank No.1 Mk.IV Centurion
This variant was a further refinement of the Mk.III. The main change was the new diesel engine, developed to address the range and speed issues. 400 tanks were built Royal Ordnance and Leyland from 1948 and the type was also an export success with sales to Australia, Chile (Mk.IVC with a Swiss 88mm gun), Egypt, Greece (Mk.IVG with a Swiss 88mm gun), Iraq, and Switzerland (Mk.IVH with the 88mm gun).
Weight: 51 tons (52 tonnes)
Dimensions: length (hull) 25ft 2in (7.6m); length overall 32ft (9.8m); width 11.1ft (3.38m); height 9ft 10.5in (3.01m)
Engine: 810hp Leyland-Orenda Ursa D.X V-12 diesel
Speed: road 24mph (38km/h); cross-country 16mph (25km/h)
Range: road 205 miles (330km)
Mobility: fording depth 4ft 9in (1.4m); vertical obstacle 3ft (91cm); trench crossing 11ft (3.3m)
Armour: hull front 118mm; hull sides 51mm; hull rear 51mm; hull floor 20mm & 10mm mine plate; turret 152-38mm, skirts 6.5mm
Armament: 1x 20pdr (84mm) QF Mk.I gun, 1x .50in (12.7mm) Vickers No.1 Mk.IIC machine-gun (co-axial), 1x .303in (7.7mm) Vickers No.3 Mk.IIIA machine-gun (pintle mount)
Crew: 4

FV202 Armoured Vehicle Royal Engineers (Turret) ARVE (T) Mk.I Centurion
This variant was one of three designed to replace the A26 Armoured Engineer Chassis. The AVRE(T) was a standard FV201 Mk.IV hull with a modified turret fitted with the same 6.5in demolition gun as fitted to the A26, which fires a 64lb (29kg) HESH round. Attachments were proved along with the an engine power-take-off to fit and operate a dozer blade along with towing gear. No side skirts were fitted. 60 were built from 1949 by Royal Ordnance.
Weight: 51 tons (52 tonnes)
Dimensions: length (hull) 25ft 2in (7.6m); width 11.1ft (3.38m); height 9ft 10.5in (3.01m)
Engine: 810hp Leyland-Orenda Ursa D.X V-12 diesel
Speed: road 24mph (38km/h); cross-country 16mph (25km/h)
Range: road 205 miles (330km)
Mobility: fording depth 4ft 9in (1.4m); vertical obstacle 3ft (91cm); trench crossing 11ft (3.3m)
Armour: hull front 118mm; hull sides 51mm; hull rear 51mm; hull floor 20mm; turret 152-38mm
Armament: 1x 6.5in (165mm) BL Mk.I demolition gun, 1x 7.92mm BESA MMG No.2 Mk.I machine-gun (pintle mount)
Crew: 4

FV203 Armoured Vehicle Royal Engineers (Light) ARVE (L) Chariot Mk.I
This variant was the second of three designed to replace the A26 Armoured Engineer Chassis. The AVRE (L) uses a standard FV201 Mk.IV chassis but with a modified turretless hull with a raised crew compartment. This compartment has two 1.5x2ft (45 x 60cm) roof hatches and two side doors. The vehicle can be fitted with two 15ft (4.5m) long ramps with a trackway across the roof so the vehicle can be used as a mobile bridge over obstructions 71ft (21.6m) wide. The AVRE (L) can also carry on its roof either fascines or a 50/60ton raft. Attachments were proved along with the an engine power-take-off to fit and operate a dozer blade along with towing gear. No side skirts were fitted. 120 were built from 1950 by NEE.
Weight: 48 tons (48.7 tonnes)
Dimensions: length (hull) 25ft 2in (7.6m); width 11.1ft (3.38m); height 10ft (3.04m)
Engine: 810hp Leyland-Orenda Ursa D.X V-12 diesel
Speed: road 29mph (48km/h); cross-country 18mph (30km/h)
Range: road 215 miles (346km)
Mobility: fording depth 4ft 9in (1.4m); vertical obstacle 3ft (91cm); trench crossing 11ft (3.3m)
Armour: hull front 51mm; hull sides 51mm; hull rear 38mm; hull floor 20mm
Armament: 1x 7.92mm BESA MMG No.2 Mk.I machine-gun (bow)
Crew: 3 + 12 Royal Engineers

FV204
This was a project for an FV201 Mk.IV tank fitted with the Canadian Indestructible Roller Device (CIRD) for mine clearance. A mock-up was built in 1949 but the requirement was soon cancelled following development problems with CIRD.

FV205
This was a project for a self-propelled anti-tank gun with a casemate gun. The original specification called for a 4.5in (114mm) calibre gun but in fact loading and handling trials were made during 1948 with a modified 3.7in (94mm) anti-aircraft gun, the Ordnance 32pdr QF Mk.I. Several problems were identified and the existence of the A31 Avenger armed with a 17pdr gun as a mobile anti-tank gun for the Royal Artillery put this project onto the back of the development queue.

FV206 Self-Propelled Gun Carrier 5.5in Mk.I Sexton
This self-propelled gun used the wider chassis of the FV214 Conqueror tank but several novel features were implemented in the design. First the running was adapted so that the engine was now in the ‘front’ when the tank was moving forwards. The former forward hull and turret space was rebuilt as an enclosed casemate for the artillery piece, the driver sitting beside the gun which faced towards the new front of the vehicle. The rear of the casemate had a large access door and attachments for firing spades. 76 shells and 96 charges could be carried. Production began in 1947 and 250 were built by Leyland.
Weight: 50 tons (51 tonnes)
Dimensions: length (hull) 25ft 2in (7.6m); width 13.1ft (3.99m); height 10ft (3.04m)
Engine: 810hp Leyland-Orenda Ursa D.X V-12 diesel
Speed: road 29mph (48km/h); cross-country 18mph (30km/h)
Range: road 205 miles (330km)
Mobility: fording depth 4ft (1m); vertical obstacle 3ft (91cm); trench crossing 11ft (3.3m)
Armour: hull front 51mm; hull sides 51mm; hull rear 38mm; hull floor 20mm; superstructure 58-17mm
Armament: 1x 5.5in BL Mk.III* gun, 1x .303in (7.7mm) Vickers No.3 Mk.IIIA machine-gun (pintle mount)
Crew: 4

FV207 Self-Propelled Gun Carrier 7.2in Mk.I Parson
This was a variant of FV206 and identical apart from the fitting of the 7.2in BL Howitzer No.1 Mk I. Production began in 1949 and 250 were built by Leyland.
Weight: 51 tons (52 tonnes)
Dimensions: length (hull) 25ft 2in (7.6m); width 13.1ft (3.99m); height 10ft (3.04m)
Engine: 810hp Leyland-Orenda Ursa D.X V-12 diesel
Speed: road 29mph (48km/h); cross-country 18mph (30km/h)
Range: road 205 miles (330km)
Mobility: fording depth 4ft (1m); vertical obstacle 3ft (91cm); trench crossing 11ft (3.3m)
Armour: hull front 51mm; hull sides 51mm; hull rear 38mm; hull floor 20mm; superstructure 58-17mm
Armament: 1x 7.2in BL No.1 Mk.I* gun, 1x 7.92mm BESA MMG No.2 Mk.I machine-gun (pintle mount)
Crew: 4

FV208 Armoured Vehicle Royal Engineers (Bridge) ARVE (B) Chariot Mk.III
This variant was based on the FV201 chassis and was designed to bridge a 45ft (m) gap. The basic tank chassis was used to carry and launch and 45ft (m) long bridge. The bridge could be emplaced in two minutes. The commander and engineer sat in the former turret compartment. A prototype was tested in 1949 but production of 100 vehicles by Royal Ordnance did not begin until 1951.
Weight: 40 tons (41 tonnes)
Dimensions: length (hull) 25ft 2in (7.6m); width 11.1ft (3.38m)
Engine: 810hp Leyland-Orenda Ursa D.X V-12 diesel
Speed: road 29mph (48km/h); cross-country 18mph (30km/h)
Range: road 215 miles (346km)
Mobility: fording depth 4ft 9in (1.4m); vertical obstacle 3ft (91cm); trench crossing 11ft (3.3m)
Armour: hull front 51mm; hull sides 51mm; hull rear 38mm; hull floor 20mm

FV209 Armoured Recovery Vehicle Chariot Mk.II
This variant an armoured recovery vehicle for vehicles weighing up to 30 tons and was an adaptation of the FV203 ARVE (L). The vehicle was equipped with a 30-ton capacity winch driven off the engine’s power-take-off. A secondary 4.5-ton capacity winch, a 1-ton capacity jib crane and anchoring spades were also fitted. 96 were built from 1950 by NEE.
Weight: 48 tons (48.7 tonnes)
Dimensions: length (hull) 25ft 2in (7.6m); width 11.1ft (3.38m); height 10ft (3.04m)
Engine: 810hp Leyland-Orenda Ursa D.X V-12 diesel
Speed: road 29mph (48km/h); cross-country 18mph (30km/h)
Range: road 215 miles (346km)
Mobility: fording depth 4ft 9in (1.4m); vertical obstacle 3ft (91cm); trench crossing 11ft (3.3m)
Armour: hull front 51mm; hull sides 51mm; hull rear 38mm; hull floor 20mm
Armament: 1x 7.92mm BESA MMG No.2 Mk.I machine-gun (bow)
Crew: 4

FV210 Armoured Artillery Tractor Mk.I Cannoneer
This was an artillery tractor for heavy artillery based on the FV203 ARVE (L) but with the 4.5-ton capacity winch of the FV209 and towing equipment. Up to 96 shells could be stowed in the main compartment or up to 12 gun crew. Only 50 were produced by NEE from 1951 due to the high cost.
Weight: 48 tons (48.7 tonnes)
Dimensions: length (hull) 25ft 2in (7.6m); width 11.1ft (3.38m); height 10ft (3.04m)
Engine: 810hp Leyland-Orenda Ursa D.X V-12 diesel
Speed: road 29mph (48km/h); cross-country 18mph (30km/h)
Range: road 215 miles (346km)
Mobility: fording depth 4ft 9in (1.4m); vertical obstacle 3ft (91cm); trench crossing 11ft (3.3m)
Armour: hull front 51mm; hull sides 51mm; hull rear 38mm; hull floor 20mm
Armament: 1x 7.92mm BESA MMG No.2 Mk.I machine-gun (bow)
Crew: 3 & 12 gunners

FV211
This project was a variant of the FV211 intended to tow medium artillery and resupply the batteries. This variant was abandoned in 1948 due to the high cost of the FV200 chassis.

FV211
This project was a yet another variant of the FV203 vehicle as a heavy armoured carrier for a dozen infantry. This variant was abandoned in 1948 due to the high cost of the FV200 chassis.

FV213
This project was a fully amphibious variant of the FV209 for use on beaches during amphibious assaults. Unconvinced by the tactical need, only sketchy plans were drawn up in 1949 before the idea was dropped.

FV214 Heavy Gun Tank No.1 Mk.I Conqueror
As tank development continued at some pace, fears of a new generation of tanks armed with 100mm calibre guns and up to 152mm thick armour had by 1946 encouraged work to begin on a 32pdr gun based off the 3.7in (94mm) anti-aircraft gun. The FV201 chassis was adapted with a wider turret ring, wider tracks, improved suspension and the glacis armour was sloped at 61 degrees to provide much improved frontal protection. A new cast turret, ballistically shaped to deflect rounds was also developed. The gun would have an automatic rammer and a shell ejection system. The turret also featured a rotating commander's cupola with a coincidence rangefinder as part of the fire-control system, enabling the gunner to engage a target while the commander searched for a new one. It was 1952 before trials began of the complete chassis and turret (leading to development of the FV221) and 1955 before the tank entered service. 180 were built from 1954 by Royal Ordnance.
Weight: 65 tons (66 tonnes)
Dimensions: length (hull) 25ft 2in (7.6m); length overall 38ft (12m); width 13.1ft (3.99m); height 10ft 5in (3.18m)
Engine: 810hp Leyland-Orenda Ursa D.X V-12 diesel
Speed: road 22mph (35km/h); cross-country 15mph (24km/h)
Range: road 100 miles (161km)
Mobility: fording depth 4ft 9in (1.4m); vertical obstacle 3ft (91cm); trench crossing 11ft (3.3m)
Armour: hull front 120-130mm; hull sides 56mm; hull rear 56mm; hull floor 25mm & 10mm mine plate; turret 340-51mm, skirts 30mm
Armament: 1x 32pdr (94mm) QF Mk.I gun, 1x 7.92mm BESA MMG No.2 Mk.I machine-gun (co-axial), 1x 7.92mm BESA MMG No.2 Mk.I machine-gun (pintle mount)
Crew: 4

FV215
This was a ‘super heavy gun tank’ project based on the FV214 chassis and turret but with the engine moved to the front of the hull and the turret moved to the rear to allow the use of a much larger main gun. Remained only a paper study, although a wooden mock-up was built.

FV216
This was an FV203 ARVE (L) fitted with the Canadian Indestructible Roller Device (CIRD) for mine clearance. The prototype FV203 was modified in 1949 but development problems with CIRD meant that only two other vehicles were converted in 1950.

FV217
This was a project based on the FV205 for a self-propelled 32pdr anti-tank gun with a casemate gun but using the slightly wider FV214 hull. It was decided not to pursue this project in 1952.

FV218
This project was a yet another variant of the FV203 vehicle as an cargo carrier. This variant was abandoned in 1948 due to the high cost of the FV200 chassis.

FV219 Armoured Recovery Vehicle Chariot Mk.IV
This variant is an upgraded FV209 ARV with the main winch upgraded to 49-tons capacity driven from the power-take-off and also equipped with a backup 72hp Bedford QL engine. The anchoring spade was also redesigned and the rear of the superstructure had additional access doors. A secondary 4.5-ton capacity winch and a 1-ton capacity jib crane were also fitted. 30 were built from 1952 by NEE.
Weight: 48 tons (48.7 tonnes)
Dimensions: length (hull) 25ft 2in (7.6m); width 11.1ft (3.38m); height 10ft (3.04m)
Engine: 810hp Leyland-Orenda Ursa D.X V-12 diesel
Speed: road 29mph (48km/h); cross-country 18mph (30km/h)
Range: road 215 miles (346km)
Mobility: fording depth 4ft 9in (1.4m); vertical obstacle 3ft (91cm); trench crossing 11ft (3.3m)
Armour: hull front 51mm; hull sides 51mm; hull rear 38mm; hull floor 20mm
Armament: 1x 7.92mm BESA MMG No.2 Mk.I machine-gun (pintle mount)
Crew: 4

FV221 Medium Gun Tank No.2 Mk.I Caernarvon
With the delays to the advanced FV214 tank, an interim solution was to fit the first 30 FV214 hulls with the standard FV201 Centurion Mk.IV turret during 1953. All were later re-turreted to FV221 standard.
Weight: 55 tons (56 tonnes)
Dimensions: length (hull) 25ft 2in (7.6m); width 13.1ft (3.99m); height 10ft 5in (3.18m)
Engine: 810hp Leyland-Orenda Ursa D.X V-12 diesel
Speed: road 22mph (35km/h); cross-country 15mph (24km/h)
Range: road 100 miles (161km)
Mobility: fording depth 4ft 9in (1.4m); vertical obstacle 3ft (91cm); trench crossing 11ft (3.3m)
Armour: hull front 130-120mm; hull sides 56mm; hull rear 56mm; hull floor 25mm & 10mm mine plate; turret 340-51mm, skirts 6.5mm
Armament: 1x 20pdr (84mm) QF Mk.I gun, 1x .50in (12.7mm) Vickers No.1 Mk.IIC machine-gun (co-axial), 1x 7.92mm BESA MMG No.2 Mk.I machine-gun (pintle mount)
Crew: 4

FV222 Turbine Test Vehicle
This was the seventh FV221 prototype hull modified for trials with a 1,000shp Parsons gas turbine engine. The turret was removed and the engine bay was reconfigured. Trials were run between 1954 and 1956.

FV223 Medium Gun Tank No.1 Mk.V Centurion
This variant was a further refinement of the FV201 Mk.IV with an improved fire-control system, engine and suspension based on developments made for the FV214 as it was realised that the FV214 was an expensive and specialised tank for widespread use. 600 tanks were built from 1954 by Royal Ordnance and Leyland.
Weight: 55 tons (56 tonnes)
Dimensions: length (hull) 25ft 2in (7.6m); length overall 32ft (9.8m); width 11.1ft (3.38m); height 9ft 10.5in (3.01m)
Engine: 810hp Leyland-Orenda Ursa D.X V-12 diesel
Speed: road 29mph (48km/h); cross-country 18mph (30km/h)
Range: road 205 miles (330km)
Mobility: fording depth 4ft 9in (1.4m); vertical obstacle 3ft (91cm); trench crossing 11ft (3.3m)
Armour: hull front 130-120mm; hull sides 56mm; hull rear 56mm; hull floor 25mm & 10mm mine plate; turret 195-38mm, skirts 30mm
Armament: 1x 20pdr (84mm) QF Mk.I gun, 1x .50in (12.7mm) Vickers No.1 Mk.IIC machine-gun (co-axial), 1x 7.92mm BESA MMG No.2 Mk.I machine-gun (pintle mount)
Crew: 4


FV300 Series

FV301 Light Tank Mk.VIII Spartan
Designed by Vickers from early 1943 and then taken further by the Armoured Vehicle Research and Development Establishment during 1944, with prototype trials of the rear-engined M131 chassis taking place later that year. Torsion-bar suspension is fitted and a sloped frontal glacis armour plate improves protection in the frontal arc. The light tank is intended mainly for reconnaissance, in effect being a tracked armoured car for use in rough terrain but armed with a 17pdr gun to enable it to defeat heavier tanks and make ambush attacks; eighty rounds of ammunition are carried. Only 100 tanks were built by Vickers for the British Army from 1945, exports were made to Iraq.
Weight: 21 tons (22 tonnes)
Dimensions: length (hull) 23ft 5in (7.1m); width 9ft 8in (2.9); height 8ft 6in (2.6m)
Engine: 400hp Orenda Ursa Minor V-6 petrol
Speed: road 30mph (48km/h); cross-country 22mph (35km/h)
Range: road 153 miles (245km)
Mobility: fording depth 4ft 9in (1.4m); vertical obstacle 2ft 6in (79cm); trench crossing 6ft 6in (1.9m)
Armour: hull front 44-31mm; hull sides 19mm; hull rear 19mm; hull floor 10mm & 20mm mine plate; turret 51-12mm
Armament: : 1x 17pdr (77mm) QF Mk.I gun, 1x .303in (7.7mm) Vickers Mk.VIII machine-gun (co-axial), 1x .303in (7.7mm) Vickers No.3 Mk.IIIA machine-gun (pintle mount)
Crew: 3

FV302 Armoured Command Vehicle Mk.III Trojan
This variant was based on the M132 chassis which had the engine moved to the front of the hull beside the driver. This left space at the rear of the vehicle for a raised superstructure with a door in the rear plate for access as well as roof hatches. In the FV302 this space was used to hold a command post team as well as a map table, field telephones and radio equipment; a folding tent could be erected behind the vehicle and stowed aboard when not in use. 70 vehicles were built from 1946 by Vickers.
Weight: 19 tons (19.3 tonnes)
Dimensions: length (hull) 23ft 5in (7.1m); width 9ft 8in (2.9); height 9ft 6in (2.9m)
Engine: 400hp Orenda Ursa Minor V-6 petrol
Speed: road 30mph (48km/h); cross-country 22mph (35km/h)
Range: road 153 miles (245km)
Mobility: fording depth 4ft 9in (1.4m); vertical obstacle 2ft 6in (79cm); trench crossing 6ft 6in (1.9m)
Armour: hull front 44-31mm; hull sides 19mm; hull rear 19mm; hull floor 10mm & 20mm mine plate; superstructure 19-10mm
Armament: 1x .303in (7.7mm) Vickers No.3 Mk.IIIA machine-gun (pintle mount)
Crew: 3 + 4 staff

FV303 Carrier 20pdr Anti-Tank Mk.I Achilles
This anti-tank self-propelled gun variant was based on the front-engined M132 chassis. The rear fighting compartment was identical to that of the FV304 and mounted a 20pdr (84mm) gun in a casemate mounting. 150 were built by Vickers from 1947.
Weight: 21 tons (21.3 tonnes)
Dimensions: length (hull) 23ft 5in (7.1m); width 9ft 8in (2.9); height 9ft 6in (2.9m)
Engine: 400hp Orenda Ursa Minor V-6 petrol
Speed: road 30mph (48km/h); cross-country 22mph (35km/h)
Range: road 153 miles (245km)
Mobility: fording depth 4ft 9in (1.4m); vertical obstacle 2ft 6in (79cm); trench crossing 6ft 6in (1.9m)
Armour: hull front 44-31mm; hull sides 19mm; hull rear 19mm; hull floor 10mm & 20mm mine plate; superstructure 44-12mm
Armament: 1x 20pdr (84mm) QF Mk.I gun, 1x .303in (7.7mm) Vickers Mk.VIII machine-gun (co-axial), 1x .303in (7.7mm) Vickers No.3 Mk.IIIA machine-gun (pintle mount)
Crew: 4

FV304 Self-Propelled Gun Carrier 25pdr Mk.I Abbot
This medium self-propelled gun variant was based on the front-engined M132 chassis. The rear fighting compartment was identical to that of the FV303 and mounted a 25pdr (87mm) QF gun in a casemate mounting. 350 were built by Vickers from 1945.
Weight: 21 tons (21.3 tonnes)
Dimensions: length (hull) 23ft 5in (7.1m); width 9ft 8in (2.9); height 9ft 6in (2.9m)
Engine: 400hp Orenda Ursa Minor V-6 petrol
Speed: road 30mph (48km/h); cross-country 22mph (35km/h)
Range: road 153 miles (245km)
Mobility: fording depth 4ft 9in (1.4m); vertical obstacle 2ft 6in (79cm); trench crossing 6ft 6in (1.9m)
Armour: hull front 44-31mm; hull sides 19mm; hull rear 19mm; hull floor 10mm & 20mm mine plate; superstructure 44-12mm
Armament: 1x 25pdr (84mm) QF Mk.II gun, 1x .303in (7.7mm) Vickers No.3 Mk.IIIA machine-gun (pintle mount)
Crew: 4

FV305 Self-Propelled Gun Carrier 5.5in Mk.II
This was a variant of the FV304 fitted with a 1x 5.5in BL Mk.III* gun, a prototype was produced in 1945 but no production followed due to a decision to proceed with the larger FV206 Sexton to carry this weapon.

FV306 Armoured Recovery Vehicle Mk.I Trojan
This recovery vehicle variant was based on the rear-engined M132 chassis and shared the enlarged rear superstructure of the FV302 command post. The vehicle was equipped with a 15-ton capacity winch driven off the engine’s power-take-off. A 3-ton capacity A-frame jib crane and anchoring spades were also fitted. 90 vehicles were built from 1947 by Vickers.
Weight: 19 tons (19.3 tonnes)
Crew: 4

FV307 Carrier Tracked, Electronic Mk.I Trojan
This variant was another FV302 adaptation, this vehicle carrying radio-direction finding equipment for anti-aircraft batteries. Gun Laying RDF Mk.VII Yellow Fever equipment is fitted along with the EMI Blue Diamond RDF set. A generator trailer is towed behind the vehicle. 60 vehicles were built from 1951 by Vickers.
Weight: 19 tons (19.3 tonnes)
Dimensions: length (hull) 23ft 5in (7.1m); width 9ft 8in (2.9); height 9ft 6in (2.9m)
Engine: 400hp Orenda Ursa Minor V-6 petrol
Speed: road 30mph (48km/h); cross-country 22mph (35km/h)
Range: road 153 miles (245km)
Mobility: fording depth 4ft 9in (1.4m); vertical obstacle 2ft 6in (79cm); trench crossing 6ft 6in (1.9m)
Armour: hull front 44-31mm; hull sides 19mm; hull rear 19mm; hull floor 10mm & 20mm mine plate; superstructure 19-10mm
Crew: 4

FV308 Armoured Artillery Tractor Mk.I Trojan
This variant was another FV302 adaptation as a field artillery tractor for medium batteries. The rear compartment could carry six gunners and 40 rounds of ammunition, a field gun or an ammunition limber could also be towed. 150 vehicles were built from 1945 by Vickers.
Weight: 19 tons (18 tonnes)
Armament: 1x .303in (7.7mm) Vickers No.3 Mk.IIIA machine-gun (pintle mount)
Crew: 2 + 6 gunners

FV309 Armoured Command Vehicle Mk.IV Trojan
This was a variant of the FV302 command post equipped for Royal Artillery battery use. The rear compartment held a battery command post team as well as a map table, field telephones and radio equipment; a folding tent could be erected behind the vehicle and stowed aboard when not in use. 120 vehicles were built from 1947 by Vickers.
Weight: 19 tons (19.3 tonnes)
Armament: 1x .303in (7.7mm) Vickers No.3 Mk.IIIA machine-gun (pintle mount)
Crew: 3 + 4 staff

FV310 Armoured Carrier Tracked Mk.I Trojan
This variant was another FV302 adaptation as an armoured carrier for infantry. The rear compartment could carry eight infantry and was the first infantry carrier in British service to offer an enclosed armoured compartment. 500 vehicles were built from 1948 by Vickers.
Weight: 19 tons (19.3 tonnes)
Dimensions: length (hull) 23ft 5in (7.1m); width 9ft 8in (2.9); height 9ft 6in (2.9m)
Engine: 400hp Orenda Ursa Minor V-6 petrol
Speed: road 30mph (48km/h); cross-country 22mph (35km/h)
Range: road 153 miles (245km)
Mobility: fording depth 4ft 9in (1.4m); vertical obstacle 2ft 6in (79cm); trench crossing 6ft 6in (1.9m)
Armour: hull front 44-31mm; hull sides 19mm; hull rear 19mm; hull floor 10mm & 20mm mine plate; superstructure 44-12mm
Armament: 1x 7.92mm BESA MMG No.2 Mk.I machine-gun (pintle mount)
Crew: 2 + 8 troops

FV311 Armoured Artillery Tractor Mk.II Trojan
This was a variant of the FV308 for the carrying of cargo or up to 90 rounds of field gun ammunition. 150 vehicles were built from 1949 by Vickers.


FV400 Series

FV401 Carrier Tracked No.3 Mk.I Cambridge
Designed in 1947 by the Armoured Vehicle Research and Development Establishment as an improved Oxford carrier with simpler box hull with a sloped frontal glacis to improve protection, folding armoured shields around the troop compartment, a new torsion-bar suspension and a 160hp Rolls-Royce B80 petrol engine. The vehicle can carry up to five infantry men or anti-tank gunners when used to tow 17pdr anti-tank guns. The vehicle is also complete amphibious, being propelled in the water by its tracks. 200 were built following completion of prototype trials in 1949 by Morris and Alvis.
Weight: 9.5 tons (9.6 tonnes)
Dimensions: length 15ft 4in (4.6m); width 8ft 4in (2.5m); height 5ft 6in (1.6m)
Engine: 160hp Rolls-Royce B80 Mk.5F petrol
Speed: road 35mph (56km/h); cross-country 29mph (62km/h); water 2.5kt
Range: road 125 miles (201km)
Armour: hull front 8mm; hull sides 12mm; hull rear 12mm; hull floor 10mm & 10mm mine plate; pannier boxes and skirts 6mm, folding shields 8mm
Armament: 1x .280in (7mm) LMG No.4 Mk.I TADEN (pintle mount)
Crew: 2 + 5 troops

FV402 OP Carrier Tracked No.3 Mk.I Cambridge
This variant is equipped as an observation post for anti-tank batteries. 90 were built from 1950 by Morris.
Weight: 8.25 tons (8.3 tonnes)
Armament: 1x .280in (7mm) LMG No.4 Mk.I TADEN (pintle mount)
Crew: 5

FV403 Carrier Tracked No.3 Mk.II Cambridge
This is a variant of the FV401, identical except for hitching gear to tow a 17pdr anti-tank gun. 400 were built from 1950 by Morris and Alvis.

FV404 Repair Vehicle, Charging, Mk.I
This variant is equipped with battery charging equipment and a portable generator. 56 were built in 1951 by Alvis.
Weight: 9.5 tons (9.6 tonnes)
Crew: 3

FV405 Carrier Tracked No.3 Mk.III Cambridge
This is a variant of the FV401, identical except for a mounting for a 7.92mm BESA MMG No.2 Mk.I machine-gun and additional stowage space. 100 were built from 1952 by Morris and Alvis.

FV406
A command post variant, none were built due to a decision to standardise on the larger and more capable FV302 vehicle.

FV407 Command Carrier Tracked No.3 Mk.I Tentacle
This variant was fitted with additional ground-to-air VHF radio equipment for forward air observer command posts. 84 were built by Alvis from 1952.
Weight: 8.25 tons (8.3 tonnes)
Armament: 1x 7.92mm BESA MMG No.2 Mk.I (pintle mount)
Crew: 4

FV408 Ambulance Tracked No.3 Mk.I Cambridge
An ambulance variant, this introduced a longer chassis with an additional road wheel to enable litters to be carried. Due to the lack of complete overhead protection, only 50 were built from 1953 by Morris.
Weight: 9.5 tons (9.6 tonnes)
Dimensions: length 17ft 4in (5.2m); width 8ft 4in (2.5m); height 5ft 6in (1.6m)
Engine: 160hp Rolls-Royce B80 Mk.5F petrol
Speed: road 32mph (51km/h); cross-country 25mph (40km/h); water 2.5kt
Range: road 125 miles (201km)
Armour: hull front 8mm; hull sides 12mm; hull rear 12mm; hull floor 10mm & 10mm mine plate; pannier boxes and skirts 6mm, folding shields 8mm
Crew: 2 + 2 litters and 2 seated casualties

FV409 Command Carrier Tracked No.3 Mk.II Tentacle
This was a variant equipped for Royal Artillery use by gun position officers and with additional radio equipment. 60 vehicles were built from 1951 by Morris.
Weight: 8.25 tons (8.3 tonnes)
Armament: 1x .280in (7mm) LMG No.4 Mk.I TADEN (pintle mount)
Crew: 4


FV420 Series

FV421 Carrier Tracked No.5 Mk.I Warwick
Designed in 1950 by the Armoured Vehicle Research and Development Establishment as an improved Cambridge carrier for load transportation. The lengthened FV408 Cambridge ambulance was a starting point. The two crew sat in an armoured cab with the four enclosed cargo compartments to the rear, each accessed by its own large downwards hinged door. These compartments could be fitted with racks for ammunition or for up to 5 tons of cargo. A double floor was used, with the torsion suspension between them. The vehicle is complete amphibious, being propelled in the water by its tracks. 200 were built from 1953 by Morris.
Weight: 13.3 tons (13.5 tonnes)
Dimensions: length 17ft 6in (5.3m); width 9ft (2.7m); height 7ft 10in (2.3m)
Engine: 160hp Rolls-Royce B80 Mk.5F petrol
Speed: road 32mph (51km/h); cross-country 25mph (40km/h); water 2.5kt
Range: road 250 miles (402km)
Mobility: vertical obstacle 2ft (63cm); trench crossing 6ft 9in (1.1m)
Armour: hull front 8mm; hull sides 12mm; hull rear 12mm; hull floor 10mm & 10mm mine plate; skirts 6mm; hull doors 8mm
Armament: 1x .280in (7mm) LMG No.4 Mk.I TADEN (pintle mount)
Crew: 2 + 5 tons of cargo

FV422 Carrier Tracked No.5 Mk.II Warwick
This variant was an infantry carrier with twelve seats fitted in the cargo compartments. Given the less than optimal arrangement compared with the existing FV310 Carrier, only two prototypes were built in 1952.

FV423 Command Carrier Tracked No.5 Mk.I Warwick
This variant had a modified cargo area for use as a command post. The four side doors were retained but the roof was raised slightly. It was equipped with a map table, field telephones and radio equipment; a folding tent could be erected on either side of the vehicle and stowed aboard when not in use. 20 were built in 1954.
Crew: 2 + 8

FV424 Engineer Carrier Tracked No.5 Mk.I Warwick
This variant was equipped as a Royal Engineers section vehicle. 65 were built in 1955.

FV424 Engineer Tracked No.5 Mk.II Warwick
This variant was equipped as a Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers section vehicle. 85 were built in 1955 to 1956.


FV500 Series

FV501 Carrier Tracked (Amphibious) No.4 Mk.I Neptune
This is the GTÉ TACT (Tracked Amphibious Cargo Transporter) designed and built by the Irish company Grúpa Thionscal Éireann (GTÉ) to meet a perceived need in export markets for capable amphibious vehicles. These were purchased in 1948.


FV600 Series

FV601 Armoured Car Mk.I Saladin
Developed by Alvis to meet Army requirements for a new heavy 6x6 wheeled armoured reconnaissance vehicle. Design work began in 1947 and the FV601A prototype chassis first ran in 1949. A new L5 low-recoil gun was developed for this and other light vehicles and 42 rounds could be accommodated. Production of 150 vehicles began in 1951. The vehicle is amphibious and is propelled by its wheels. Vehicles were also exported to Jordan and Kuwait.
Weight: 11.6 tons (11.7 tonnes)
Dimensions: length 16ft 2in (4.9m); width 8ft 4in (2.5m); height 7ft 10in (2.3m)
Engine: 160hp Rolls-Royce B80 Mk.6A petrol
Speed: road 45mph (72km/h)
Range: road 250 miles (402km)
Mobility: vertical obstacle 1.5ft (46cm)
Armour: hull front 32mm; hull sides 13mm; hull rear 13mm; hull floor 10mm & 10mm mine plate; turret 32-13mm
Armament: 1x 3in (76mm) L5A1 gun, 1x 7.92mm BESA MMG No.2 Mk.I machine-gun (co-axial), 1x 7.92mm BESA MMG No.2 Mk.I machine-gun (pintle mount)
Crew: 3

FV601 Armoured Car Mk.II Saladin
This variant is equipped with reverse-flow cooling for use in tropical and desert climates. Production of 150 vehicles began in 1952 and was also exported to Australia, Jordan and Kuwait.

FV602
This project was for a command post vehicle, but was abandoned in 1948 in favour of the FV300 and FV400 series vehicles then already in development.

FV603 Carrier Wheeled No.2 Mk.I Saracen
Developed by Alvis to replace the Yugoslavian-sourced Lazar wheeled carrier. It shares the FV601 Saracen chassis but with the engine moved to the front to allow room in the rear for a troop compartment for 10 infantry men. The turret from the FV701 Ferret scout car was fitted with a single machine gun and a ring mount over one of the roof hatch for a TADEN light machine-gun. There are eight vision ports that can double as rifle ports. The vehicle is amphibious and is propelled by its wheels. Production of 250 vehicles began in 1952.
Weight: 11 tons (11.1 tonnes)
Dimensions: length 17ft 1in (5.2m); width 8ft 4in (2.5m); height 8ft 1in (2.4m)
Engine: 160hp Rolls-Royce B80 Mk.6A petrol
Speed: road 45mph (72km/h); water 5kt
Range: road 435 miles (700km)
Mobility: vertical obstacle 1.5ft (46cm)
Armour: hull front 16mm; hull sides 13mm; hull rear 13mm; hull floor 10mm & 10mm mine plate; turret 16-8mm
Armament: 1x 7.92mm BESA MMG No.2 Mk.I machine-gun, 1x .280in (7mm) LMG No.4 Mk.I TADEN (pintle mount)
Crew: 2 + 10 troops

FV603 Carrier Wheeled No.2 Mk.II Saracen
This variant is equipped with reverse-flow cooling for use in tropical and desert climates. Production of 250 vehicles began in 1952 and was also exported to Australia, Jordan and Thailand.

FV604 Command Carrier Wheeled No.2 Mk.I Saracen
This variant is equipped with additional radio equipment for use as part of a regimental headquarters and lacks the turret. 55 were built from 1954.
Armament: 1x .280in (7mm) LMG No.4 Mk.I TADEN (pintle mount)
Crew: 8

FV605 Command Carrier Wheeled No.2 Mk.III Saracen
This variant was fitted with additional ground-to-air VHF radio equipment for forward air observer command posts. 20 were built from 1955.
Armament: 1x 7.92mm BESA MMG No.2 Mk.I (pintle mount)
Crew: 4

FV606
This project was for a vehicle carrying a gun-laying RDF set for Royal Artillery batteries. Development never got underway beyond drawing board studies.

FV607 Command Carrier Wheeled No.2 Mk.IV Saracen
This variant carried sonic detection equipment for Royal Artillery batteries for counter-battery bombardment. 36 were built in 1956.

FV608
This was a proposed infantry command post vehicle. It was never built.

FV609
This was reserved for an armoured version of the Salamander fire tender which used a variant of the FV600 chassis.

FV610 Command Carrier Wheeled No.2 Mk.II Saracen
This variant is equipped with additional radio equipment for use as part of a Royal Artillery command post. It has a higher roofline to allow the crew to stand and lacks the turret. 100 were built from 1955.
Dimensions: height 9ft 6in (2.9m)
Armament: 1x .280in (7mm) LMG No.4 Mk.I TADEN (pintle mount)
Crew: 8

FV611 Armoured Ambulance Wheeled No.2 Mk.I Saracen
This unarmed ambulance variant has the same hull as the FV610. 200 were built from 1955.
Dimensions: height 9ft 6in (2.9m)
Crew: 2 + litters and/or seated casulties


FV700 Series

FV701 Scout Car Mk.I Ferret
Developed by Daimler in 1946 to replace the ‘Dingo’ this small 4x4 wheeled car is armed with a single turret-mounted machine gun. Production began in 1949 with 220 for the British Army and exports were made to Canada.
Weight: 3.7 tons (3.8 tonnes)
Dimensions: length 12ft 2in (3.7m); width 6ft 3in (1.9m); height 6ft 2in (1.8m)
Engine: 130hp Rolls-Royce B60 petrol
Speed: road 58mph (93km/h)
Range: road 190 miles (300km)
Armour: hull front 16mm; hull sides 12mm; hull rear 12mm; hull floor 8mm; turret 16-8mm
Armament: 1x 7.92mm BESA MMG No.2 Mk.I machine-gun, 1x .280in (7mm) LMG No.4 Mk.I TADEN (pintle mount)
Crew: 3

FV701 Scout Car Mk.II Ferret
This variant is equipped with reverse-flow cooling for use in tropical and desert climates. Production of 300 vehicles began in 1950 and was also exported to Australia, Jordan, Iraq and Saudi Arabia.

FV702
This was a projected liaison vehicle development without a turret and just a pintle mounted machine-gun.

FV703 Scout Car Mk.III Ferret
This variant had improved armour, larger tyres and improved suspension and a floatation screen for amphibious use. Production of 300 vehicles began in 1953.
Weight: 3.8 tons (3.9 tonnes)
Dimensions: length 12ft 2in (3.7m); width 6ft 3in (1.9m); height 6ft 3in (1.8m)
Engine: 130hp Rolls-Royce B60 petrol
Speed: road 58mph (93km/h)
Range: road 190 miles (300km)
Armour: hull front 20mm; hull sides 14mm; hull rear 14mm; hull floor 8mm & 10mm mine plate; turret 16-8mm
Armament: 1x 7.92mm BESA MMG No.2 Mk.I machine-gun, 1x .280in (7mm) LMG No.4 Mk.I TADEN (pintle mount)
Crew: 3

Quoted from "Hood"

This variant was a further refinement of the Mk.III. The main change was the new diesel engine, developed to address the range and speed issues. 400 tanks were built Royal Ordnance and Leyland from 1948 and the type was also an export success with sales to Australia, Chile, Egypt, Greece, Iraq, Ireland and Switzerland; Chile, Greece and Switzerland all having specified a Swiss 88mm main gun.

Just a quick minor comment: the Irish and Swiss tanks are actually Mk.II models, not Mk.IVs.

Quick summary of the Mk.IIH differences: the Swiss used their own 88mm gun and their own fire-control system, and used the Skoda V-12 diesel (of 700hp) rather than the 650hp Orenda petrol engine. The Swiss bought their tanks before the Mk.IV or the British diesel engine were ready. At some point, the Swiss might buy more Centurions - in which case, they'll probably get Mk.IVs with their 88mm gun.

The Irish got one Mk.II trials vehicle (which they bought) and five trials vehicles with 20-pounders that came back from the Swiss. These were standard Mk.IIs rather than Mk.IIH models, however. In 1948, the Irish army workshops refitted the vehicles to the Mk.IV standard.

The Chileans got the Mk.IV with the 88mm gun, exactly as noted; I presume this is also the case with the Greeks.

Otherwise, looks quite comprehensive. :)

Thanks Brock, that was very helpful as I had lost track of who brought what exactly, my bad for not keeping good notes!

Edited the above (realised I had forgotten to include the names for the FV300 series too!).

Yes, and I've not updated my encyclopedia, either. :/ I need to do that.