picture 189793

The Centurion had been the backbone of British post-Second World War armour but by the late 1960s was no longer considered adequate as an MBT and was replaced by the Chieftain. Nevertheless, the Centurion continued to serve on, as an Artillery Observation Post vehicle (still fully armed) through to the end of the 1970s. After a short hiatus these same vehicles were pressed back into service as the 105mm-armed version of the AVRE (Armoured Vehicle Royal Engineers), where they would usually be equipped with the Pearson Mine Plough and could tow a Giant Viper mine clearing trailer or other stores. (Artwork by David Bocquelet)