Unit tries out 'souped-up' tanks

The tanks have been fitted with a new cooling system for hot climates

A Norfolk unit is set to be the first to be trained to use the army's improved light tanks in the run-up to its deployment to Afghanistan.

The Light Dragoons, based in Swanton Morley, will train on the new combat vehicles known as CVR(T) next month before they deploy in the Spring.

The first batch of more than 100 "souped-up" tanks have now been delivered to army training units.

They are now more powerful and will be used for scouting out the enemy.

The contract to upgrade the tanks with a more powerful engine and gearbox and to make them more suitable for the conditions in Afghanistan has cost the army £19m.

Capt Tim Badham, of The Light Dragoons, said: "The 102 variant CVR(T) offers a vastly improved capability.

"We are looking forward to the increased speed, power, endurance, and greater suitability to the harsh desert environment, that this vehicle provides.

"This will allow us to operate even more effectively in our role as armoured reconnaissance."