Developed from the Cromwell and armed with what, in effect was a cut down 17 pounder main gun, (the 77mm HV) which proved to be the equal of the heaviest of any German opposition.
This tank was designed in 1943, and went from drawing board to production within a year, entering combat for the first time in December 1944 with the 11th Armoured Division. (Though this division was involved in the 'Battle of the Bulge' and had another tale to tell... as you will find in our 'Forgotten Battles' book on the Bulge.)
The Comet remained as part of the British Army until 1958 and was to be found in several other armies until recently. Around 1200 were built.