The FV4034 Challenger 2 (Black Night) is a technology demonstrator for BAE Systems' proposal for the Challenger 2 life extension project (LEP), intended to provide a series of modernisations that would extend the service life of the Challenger 2 MBT until 2035. The Black Night has several new enhancements, mainly around the turret, including a Safran Paseo commander's independent sight, a Leonardo thermal imager for the gunner, and a Leonardo night sight DNVS 4 to provide hunter-killer capabilities thanks to thermal imaging equipment for the gunner, commander, and driver. Other additions included a laser warning system and the IMI Iron First hard-kill active protection system. BAE Systems first showcased the Black Night at the Defense Vehicle Dynamics expo in September 2018. However, it was quickly superseded by the Rheinmetall proposal, featuring a completely redesigned turret and smoothbore gun. The Challenger 2 LEP itself has resulted in the development of the Challenger 3, a major upgrade of the platform undertaken in a joint venture by BAE and Rheinmetall to be in operation by 2030.
Introduced in Update "Wind of Change", the Black Night is a technology demonstrating modification of the standard Challenger 2 designed to counter the widespread use of anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) on modern battlefields. Thanks to cutting-edge technologies such as the well-known Iron Fist active protection system (APS), players can lead assaults into modern battlefields without fear of ATGMs from both ground vehicles and helicopters. The Black Night is a one-of-a-kind and exclusive Challenger 2 modification that provides superior protection against ATGMs. However, players should keep in mind that the Iron Fist APS does not provide limitless protection and hence the vehicle should not stay out in the open for long during combat.