The British Army has paused the use of its Ajax armoured vehicles after around 30 soldiers fell ill from noise and vibration during a war game exercise on Salisbury Plain. Personnel reportedly emerged from the vehicles vomiting and shaking uncontrollably.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) confirmed a two-week suspension for the armoured fighting vehicle, stating the investigation was initiated “out of an abundance of caution”. An MoD spokesperson said the Army “immediately stopped the exercise and proactively tested all personnel involved for symptoms”. A “vast majority” have now been cleared for duty, but a “small number of personnel continue to receive expert medical care”.
This incident marks the latest setback for the £6.3 billion Ajax programme, which has suffered long delays due to noise and vibration issues. It was originally intended to enter service in 2017, but only at the start of this month was it declared ready for initial operating capability (IOC). More than 160 Ajax vehicles have been built, out of an intended 589.
Defence minister Luke Pollard had claimed on 5 November that Ajax had “left its troubles behind” as it declared IOC. However, the MoD has now paused all use of Ajax for training and exercising for two weeks while a safety investigation is carried out. A small amount of testing will continue to identify and resolve any issues.
