The British army has paused the use of its Ajax armoured vehicles after about 30 soldiers became ill from noise and vibration during training exercises on Salisbury Plain. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) confirmed the two-week halt, ordered by Defence Minister Luke Pollard, following reports of soldiers vomiting and shaking uncontrollably.
The Ajax programme, valued at £6.3 billion, has faced repeated delays and technical issues. First deliveries began earlier this month, eight years behind schedule, with each vehicle costing nearly £10 million. The MoD had declared initial operating capability, but the latest incident raises fresh concerns about the vehicle's suitability.
An MoD spokesperson stated that the exercise was immediately stopped and all personnel tested. While most affected soldiers have returned to duty, a small number remain under medical care. Some testing will continue to identify and resolve issues.
Defence expert Prof Michael Clarke of Rusi warned that the problems have persisted despite protective equipment, and that introducing a vehicle that makes 10% of crews ill is not viable. He noted that the army has no alternative vehicles and cannot afford to scrap the programme.
