The Centurion was commissioned in 1943 to provide a new 40 ton heavy cruiser tank capable of withstanding a direct hit from the German 88mm. Initial designs were redically overhauled and the Centurion was eventually based on an extended Comet chassis with the 5 road wheels increased to 6. Originally armed with the 17 Pounder, later variants were upgunned with the 105mm L7 rifled gun. The weight was also increased as armour increased up to 52 tons.