The British Army has taken a significant step by halting the use of its Ajax armoured fighting vehicles. This decision follows reports that approximately 30 soldiers experienced health issues related to noise and vibrations during a recent training exercise.
Incident Overview
The pause, effective for two weeks, was announced by a Ministry of Defence (MoD) spokesperson. They stated that this action comes after soldiers reported concerning symptoms during a training drill over the weekend.
Health Concerns Among Soldiers
- About 30 personnel exhibited symptoms of noise and vibration issues.
- The majority have since been medically cleared and are back on duty.
- A few continue to receive expert medical care.
The MoD emphasized that this decision reflects their commitment to personnel safety. Luke Pollard, the Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, requested that all Ajax vehicle training activities be paused while a safety investigation is conducted.
Ajax Vehicle Specifications
The Ajax vehicle is touted as a next-generation armoured fighting machine, costing nearly £10 million. It weighs over 40 tonnes and features advanced surveillance equipment, protective armour, and a powerful 40mm gun capable of penetrating concrete.
Despite its advanced design, some soldiers have reported serious injuries due to the acoustic environment within the vehicle. Earlier this summer, medical attention was provided to personnel who sustained hearing injuries from the excessive noise generated.
Previous Findings and Investigations
- No systemic issues were identified following an earlier investigation by the MoD.
- An internal review from 2021 revealed longstanding health concerns, first raised in December 2018.
- Trials were not suspended until November 2020, despite knowing the risks.
To date, the British Army has ordered 589 Ajax vehicles, expecting to receive them by the year 2030. The MoD has indicated that these vehicles could potentially be deployed to support peacekeeping efforts in Ukraine.
Moving Forward
As the British Army works through this situation, they remain focused on ensuring the safety of their personnel. The pause on Ajax vehicle training should provide the necessary time to address and resolve any underlying issues.
