Breaking News
Additional Information on British Armoured Vehicle Ajax Unveiled by GDLS UK.
At the International Armoured Vehicles (IAV) conference in Farnborough held on February 8, 2025, General Dynamics Land Systems UK (GDLS UK) presented important updates on the Ajax armored vehicle, which plays a central role in the British Army’s modernization efforts. The Ajax, along with the Boxer 8x8 wheeled armored vehicle, is designed to significantly enhance the capabilities of the British Army, although the Challenger 3 tank was notably absent from the exhibition due to its mass and size.
The Ajax platform is at the heart of the British Army's new land operating concept. (Picture source: Army Recognition)
During the presentation, GDLS UK highlighted the latest developments of the Ajax program, which includes a total of 589 vehicles across six variants, set to be delivered to the British Army for £6.3 billion (approximately €7.5 billion). The Ajax family consists of 243 turreted vehicles armed with a CTAI 40mm cannon, 93 Ares specialist troop carriers, 112 Athena command and control vehicles, 38 Atlas recovery vehicles, 50 Apollo repair vehicles, and 51 Argus engineer reconnaissance vehicles.
The Ajax platform is at the heart of the British Army's new land operating concept, with its primary role in reconnaissance and strike missions. A senior British Army official present at the event stated that the Ajax would serve as the cornerstone of the reconnaissance strike complex, aimed at defeating adversaries through attrition at long range before engaging in close combat. This strategic shift is reflected in the broader equipment program, which also includes vehicles such as the Boxer and Challenger 3, as well as the 120mm mortar mounted on the Ajax.
At IAV 2025, GDLS UK representatives emphasized that the Ajax is "a truly transformational capability" for the British Army. The program has made significant progress, with the vehicle now in production at GDLS UK’s Merthyr Tydfil facility in Wales. The first units have already been delivered to Field Army units, and the Initial Operational Capability (IOC) is scheduled for later this year.
The Ajax program has faced certain challenges, particularly regarding noise and vibration issues, which have been resolved through design modifications. GDLS UK emphasized that these changes have led to significantly reduced noise and vibration levels. To date, more than 167 battlefield missions have been completed, and over 41,000 km have been driven during mobility trials. Additionally, the NATO-qualified CTAI 40mm cannon has been successfully tested, firing nearly 5,000 rounds, providing a terminal effect four times greater than a 30mm weapon, and achieving operational effects at over 4 km.
GDLS UK and the British Army plan to achieve IOC in the second half of 2025, with the first Ajax squadron ready to be deployed and capable of sustaining operations for up to six months. Following this, the next steps will include integrating Ajax into the Armoured Cavalry Battle Group, then into the Recce Strike Brigade Combat Team by 2026-27. Full Operational Capability (FOC) is expected to be achieved between October 2028 and September 2029, marking the completion of training and conversion of all units to the Ajax platform.
The Ajax program is not only crucial for the modernization of the British Army but it is also seen as a key element in achieving the Chief of the General Staff’s objective of doubling the Army’s fighting power by 2027 and tripling it by the end of the decade. The vehicle represents a complete departure from the aging CVR(T) family it replaces, offering a suite of sophisticated sensors and cutting-edge lethality.
In addition to its operational role, Ajax is expected to serve as a force multiplier through the continuous integration of advanced technologies. GDLS UK highlighted the platform's versatility, with its open electronic architecture enabling easy adaptation to future threats. Among the potential future variants are anti-tank guided missile systems, mortar carriers, short-range air defense self-propelled vehicles, and many others. GDLS UK is focusing not only on expanding the British Army’s Ajax fleet but is also considering opportunities in the export market.
The Ajax program supports over 4,100 jobs across 230 UK-based suppliers, making a significant contribution to the national defense industry. As production accelerates and the vehicle reaches its full capabilities, Ajax is expected to become a cornerstone of the British Army's future operational success.