British army soldiers to be equipped with night vision laser equipment to better identify targets.

A state of the art laser light that can illuminate targets from up to 800m away will be provided to all infantry soldiers. Weighing just 244 grams, it fits onto the SA80 rifle to give more accurate firing in low light conditions.

More than 15,000 new lightweight, ergonomic binoculars have been ordered to be used alongside the upgraded laser lights. Designed to be easier to hold, the new models are 50 percent lighter but still offer excellent magnification to give better situational awareness.

Lance Corporal Herbline Biscette tested the equipment. He said: "This new kit will help us to stay accurate and heighten awareness in difficult, low-light conditions. Being able to mark our targets from so far away means that we can prepare for the situations ahead and do the job with confidence.

"This kit also gets tested virtually to destruction – they get dropped from height, submerged, blasted with sand, left out in minus 20 degrees – all conditions that we might have to face when using it, so we know that it won’t let us down.”

The MOD has also invested in more than 4,000 additional Head Mounted Night Vision Systems specifically for the Army Reserve. They allow soldiers to operate in poor light or in dark tunnels and buildings and better identify both threats and other personnel.

Minister for Defence Equipment, Support and Technology Philip Dunne visited the Infantry Trials Development Unit in Warminster, Wiltshire, to see the new kit being put through its paces. He said: "The ability to see further and in more detail will allow British troops to stay one step ahead of danger.

"The multi-million pound investment makes clear the MOD’s commitment to equipping our Armed Forces, including Reservists, with world-class battle-winning technology. These binoculars, laser aimers and night vision goggles will improve situational awareness and reduce collateral damage across the Battlefield."