UK MoD clears British Army’s Ajax saying “no safety concerns when operated properly”
An Ajax conducting cold weather firing trials in Sweden. (Photo: UK MoD/Crown Copyright)
The British Army’s Ajax armoured personnel carrier has a chequered history but hopes were high when Initial Operating Capability was declared last year. More problems saw operations suspended but the MoD reports it has identified the problems and short- and medium-term solutions.
Investigations into safety concerns over the British Army’s Ajax armoured fighting vehicle have given it the all-clear “when maintained and operated as designed”, according to the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD), although design improvements are ongoing.
Ajax was declared to have achieved Initial Operating Capability in early November last year but days later operations were suspended after users reported health concerns while operating the vehicle during Exercise Titan Storm.
Lt Gen Anna-Lee Reilly, director strategic capability, engagement and operations at MoD Defence Equipment and Support, was speaking before the House of Commons Public Accounts Committee on 23 March and addressed
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
![NATO boosts uncrewed usage and shifts on concept of operations based on lessons learned from Ukraine]()
NATO boosts uncrewed usage and shifts on concept of operations based on lessons learned from Ukraine
The war in Ukraine remains a focus of procurement, concepts of operation, tactics and training for NATO countries. The Crystal Arrow Exercise in Latvia, ongoing until 15 May, is a reflection of this.
-
![AI-enhanced combat radios: how to turn comms networks into an EW advantage]()
AI-enhanced combat radios: how to turn comms networks into an EW advantage
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming defence communications, boosting situational awareness and electronic warfare (EW) capabilities across the battlespace. Bittium’s new partnership with MarshallAI will significantly enhance networked technology, turning radios into cutting-edge sensors with a range of applications.
-
![Finding the balance between armour and air defence as UAVs proliferate]()
Finding the balance between armour and air defence as UAVs proliferate
While the growing drone threat has sharpened the focus on air defence solutions, Dr Peter Magill looks at why protected mobility remains crucial.
