The Continued Operation of Centurion Tanks: An Insight

Any post-WWII tank that has been exported to multiple countries is, by and large, still in service somewhere around the world, particularly in regions where the economic circumstances permit. The Centurion, a British main battle tank, is no exception to this rule. While the majority of Centurions have been retired, there are still a few that see active or secondary service in some countries.

Wide Spread Usage and Modernizations

The Centurion was among the most widely used tank designs, equipping dozens of armies around the world. Some models were still in service until the 1990s. South Africa is a prime example, where the Centurion was actively deployed during the South African Border War. The vehicles equipped the Olifant armoured fighting vehicle in South Africa, where they were modernized in the 1980s and 2000s and continue to serve in small numbers with heavy upgrades.

Israel and the Puma

In Israel, the Centurion tanks have been adapted for different roles. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF)have converted their Centurion tanks into heavy armored personal carriers (APCs) for their Engineering Corps, known as Pumas. These vehicles have been pivotal in supporting engineering operations, such as mine clearance and bridge building.

Despite these upgrades, many of the larger gun tanks have been retired in recent years. The IDF has also started phasing out the Puma and replacing them with a Merkava-based APC. My son, a combat engineer, recollects from 2014 that the Pumas were still in active service during an operation in Gaza.

Modernization and Upgrades in South Africa

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) retains a significant number of Centurions, now known as the Olifant. These tank types underwent modernization in the 1980s and 2000s, ensuring their continued relevance. The Olifant, indigenously developed and upgraded, continues to serve in both the Mk1A/B and Mk2 variants.

Other Countries’ Utilizations

While Israel and South Africa are notable, other countries have also repurposed Centurion tanks. Jordan, for instance, has used refurbished Centurion chassis to develop the Temsah APC, a modernization project that aligns with the nation's evolving military needs. The chassis have also been adapted for other roles, such as ammunition resupply vehicles (ARVs).

Conclusion

Although the Centurion is no longer as prevalent as it once was, its legacy continues in several countries through modernization, adaptation, and continued service. The Olifant, in particular, demonstrates the strategic importance of maintaining and upgrading older, yet robust, military assets. As long as there is a need for versatility and durability, the Centurion will continue to be relevant in certain corners of the globe.