Chobham Armour

“British Armored Vehicles: The Chertsey Story” is a comprehensive and insightful look at the work of the Military Vehicles Research and Development Establishment at Chobham Common, which played a crucial role in designing and developing armored vehicles for the British Army from 1945 to 2004.

Following the shortcomings of British tanks in World War II, the establishment was tasked with creating a formidable force capable of countering the Soviet threat during the Cold War. Author William Suttie, a military vehicle expert, uses official MOD reports to trace the development of iconic British tanks like the Centurion, Chieftain, and Challenger, as well as other wheeled and tracked armored vehicles.

The book showcases the innovative designs that emerged from Chertsey, which ultimately proved their worth in various conflicts, from Korea to Iraq and Afghanistan. Through detailed photographs, schemes, and drawings, including previously unpublished material, Suttie offers a unique and comprehensive overview of the post-war development of British armored vehicles.