This is a list of equipment of the British Army currently in use. It includes current equipment such as small arms, combat vehicles, explosives, missile systems, engineering vehicles, logistical vehicles, vision systems, communication systems, aircraft, watercraft, artillery, air defence, transport vehicles, as well as future equipment and equipment being trialled.
To meet its commitments, the equipment of the Army is periodically updated and modified. Programs exist to ensure the Army is suitably equipped for both current conflicts and expected future conflicts, with any shortcomings in equipment addressed as Urgent Operational Requirements (UOR), which supplements planned equipment programmes.[2]
Infantry section equipment
Each rifle section typically consists of 8 soldiers. They are each commanded by a corporal assisted by a lance corporal acting as section second-in-command (2IC). The section is further subdivided into 2 fireteams. The section commander typically commands the Charlie Fire Team, while the 2IC commands the Delta Fire Team.
While equipment formations can be tailored as required by section and platoon commanders, infantry sections are usually issued with the following:[3][4]
Charlie Fire Team (4 men)
1× Section Commander, Corporal (OR-4), armed with 1 L85A3 rifle and 1 Glock 17 pistol
1× Rifleman, Private (OR-1), armed with 1 L85A3 rifle
1× Grenadier, Private (OR-1), armed with 1 L85A3 rifle and 1 L123A2 under-barrel grenade launcher
The rifles are typically paired with the ELCAN SpecterOS 4× Lightweight Day Sight (LDS) with a mini-red dot sight (MRD) mounted on the top and a foregrip with an integrated bipod (grenadiers are not issued a foregrip/bipod because they have the L123A2 under-barrel grenade launcher in its place).
The section is also provided MATADOR anti-structure recoilless rifles and NLAW disposable ATGMs, as well as multiple L109A2 high explosive grenades, and L83A1 smoke grenades. Specialist equipment such as claymore mines, L26A1 bangalore torpedoes, L128A1 combat shotgun, etc, can be carried if required.
ARILLS (Assault Rifle In-Line Low Light Sight) - new infrared / thermal imaging sight for the SA80 A3.
Laser Light Module (LLM Mk3) - used for aiming and illumination with the SA80 A3.[7]
Jim Compact Sight - new infared binoculars that can spot targets from more than 5 km away, have both thermal and low-level light capabilities and can take HD pictures and video recordings. It also has a laser positioning system.[8]
Magnum Universal Night Sight (MUNS) - high-resolution clip-on night vision weapon sight for the L129A1 Sharpshooter. Detects and recognizes man-size targets in excess of 800 meters.[9]
FIST Thermal Sight (FTS) - thermal imaging scope designed to be mounted on rifles and light machine guns. Acquired as part of the MoD's Future Integrated Soldier Technology.[10]
Common Weapon Sight (CWS) - image-intensification night vision scope for weapons or handheld surveillance.[11]
Schmidt & Bender 5-25x56 PM II - 25x magnification day scope for the L115A3 Sniper Rifle.[13][14]
Sniper Thermal Imaging Capability (STIC) - thermal imagining sight that is mounted on the L115A3 and AX50.[15]
The command launch unit (CLU) of the Javelin anti-tank missile contains a sophisticated thermal imaging sensor that can double as a reconnaissance tool.[16]
SMASH X4 sighting system - anti-drone sight mounted on the SA80 A3 that automatically acquires a target from the sight’s field-of-view, and then displays a box around the target in the shooter’s reflex sight, only allowing the shooter to fire when the sight is aligned to hit the target.[17][18]
Communications equipment
Personal Role Radio (PRR) [19] - small, light UHF radio with a range of 500m and a battery life of 20 hours, issued to every member of the Infantry section.[20]
BowmanCombat Net Radio - secure HF, VHF, UHF voice and data communications. The MoD plans to replace Bowman with a system named Morpheus in the future.[21]
Falcon - joint tactical trunk communications system for the Land Environment.[22]
Small SATCOM - the satellite ground terminal is reasonably lightweight (41 kg) and can be set up by a single trained operator in less than 30 minutes, also using the Skynet V network.[22]
Skynet - is a family of militarycommunications satellites, they provide strategic and tactical communication services to the branches of the British Armed Forces, the British intelligence agencies, some UK government departments and agencies, and to allied governments including the Five Eyes intelligence alliance members (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States).
Tactical Satellite Communications (TACSAT) - use low orbiting communications satellites to relay radio signals between operators. The advantage to this method is the ability to communicate in remote areas out of reach of terrestrial transmitters.
Adopted as the new standard-issue sidearm to replace the L9A1 pistol, the L47A1 pistol, and the L105A1/A2, L106A1, L107A1, and L117A1/A2 pistols.[24] The L131A1 is a double action sidearm used for close combat with a magazine capacity of 17 rounds;[25][26] where deemed appropriate, it is the primary weapon of personnel working in operational staff appointments and vehicle commanders and carried as a backup weapon by frontline personnel.[27] The pistol is much lighter than its predecessors and more accurate. It also has an increased magazine capacity. Over 25,000 were purchased for use by all branches of the British Armed Forces.[28] The compact Glock 19 variant was also adopted.[23]
Standard issue assault rifle, known as the SA80, with an effective range of 300 to 600 m (980 to 1,970 ft). Primarily fitted with either SUSAT, ACOG, Elcan SpecterOS 4X or Thermal Viper 2 sights. The Laser Light Module Mk3 and the L123 Underslung Grenade Launcher (UGL) can also be attached.[7][29]
A shortened carbine variant, the L22A2, is used primarily by vehicle and helicopter crews for self-defence and by dog handlers.[30] The L85A3 upgrades include upper receiver modifications, a new model of railed handguard to provide a full-length rail system, and a Flat Dark Earth coating for improved camouflage.[31][32]
In January 2022, there was a total inventory of 134,912 SA80A2 variants and 17,900 SA80A3 variants across defence.[33]
Chosen to serve as the Alternative Individual Weapon of the Ranger Regiment and other Army Special Operations Brigade components, the L403A1 is the Knight's Stoner 1 variant of the Knight's Armament Company SR-16 fitted with a muzzle signature reduction system to mask the weapon from detection and a magnified optic. An initial order of 1,620 systems has been placed, with an option to procure up to 10,000 systems over the next decade.[44][45]
The L3A1 bayonet has a hollow handle that fits onto the muzzle of the L85 rifle with the blade offset to the side so that the rifle can be fired while the bayonet is fitted. It is shaped to produce good penetration when thrust and has a ribbed section for rope cutting. The bayonet can be used as a knife when needed. The L3A1's scabbard features a saw blade for use on wood, a sharpening stone and a bottle opener. The scabbard and bayonet can be combined to form a wire cutter.[46][47][48]
A rail-mounted adaptor was developed to allow the bayonet to be used with the L129A1 Sharpshooter Rifle.[49]
The Accuracy International AWM (known in British service as the L115A3/4) is the primary precision rifle for British Armed Forces snipers. It is equipped with a 25x scope, a suppressor, a folding stock, a five-round .338 Lapua Magnum magazine and has an effective range of over 1,100m.[52] An updated L115A1, the L115A3 entered service with British forces in 2008. The A3 features a detachable sound suppressor, all-weather day sights with improved magnification, as well as the provision for mounting night sights.
Special Forces users of the L115A3 had a requirement to fire a 300 gr (19 g) bullet - heavier than the 250 grain earlier L115s were built for - which resulted in Accuracy International developing the A4 model. It features a lengthened magazine and magazine well that can accommodate a 300 grain round, as well as a new keymod mounting system on the handguard and the addition of a spirit level at the rear of the receiver.[53]
Recoil-operated, semi-automatic, anti-materiel rifle. The British Army uses the M82A1 under the L135A1 Long Range Precision Anti-Structure (LRPAS) Rifle designation.[56][57]
Used by UKSF and the Royal Military Police Close Protection Unit.[58] The weapon comes in multiple variants from the standard L92A1 (MP5A3) and the integrally-suppressed L91A1 (MP5SD3) to the more easily concealable L80A1 (MP5K) and L90A1 (MP5KA1) which are stockless and have vertical foregrips.
The weapons no longer see extensive use but are retained for hostage rescue operations in non-hostile environments since their 9×19mm ammunition is less likely to ricochet or over-penetrate.[59]
The designated general purpose machine gun (GPMG) for sustained fire out to 1,800 m. It is used by two-man teams in specialised machine gun platoons for battalion-level fire support;[60] it is also carried by a foot soldier in an infantry section and was reinstated as the standard section machine gun following the removal of the L110A3 Minimi from service.[61]
Variants of the GPMG are mounted on most ground vehicles within the British Army.[62]
The L1A2[63] and L111A1 are the British Armed Forces versions of the American M2 Browning. It can be attached to both armoured and soft-skin vehicles, or a ground-mount tripod.
The weapon fires .50 calibre rounds at a rate of 485-635 rounds-per-minute out to an effective range of 2,000 metres.[64]
The Remington 870 pump-action shotgun is used by the SAS during counter-terrorist operations.[69]
The SAS use special Hatton rounds to shoot hinges and locks off of locked doors. The Hatton round is a mixture of compressed gun or zinc powder and wax and is formulated to cause only localised damage without passing through the door and hitting a hostage.[70]
Can be mounted on both armoured vehicles and tripods. The weapon has a 320 rpm rate of fire and an effective range of 1,500 m (4,900 ft)-2,000 m (6,600 ft).[76]
British version of the Swiss HG 85 Grenade. It differs from the original in that it has a matte black safety clip similar to the American M67 grenade. It has a 3–4 second fuse delay (climate dependent), contains 155g of high explosive and has an effective casualty radius of 15 m (49 ft).[78]
Red phosphorus smoke grenade which is effective against visual sight and aiming equipment, night-vision devices, sensors operating in the near IR-spectrum and laser range finders.[81]
Used for ground-to-ground and ground-to-air signalling and for marking target and landing zones, evacuation points, airdrop positions, etc.[79]
The colours in use are Green, Orange, Red, Blue, Yellow, Purple, Turquoise. The various colours of smoke created by smoke grenades do not have preassigned meanings or uses. The specific meaning of a given colour is determined by the needs of the user at the time of use.
Used for specialist and defensive purposes.[83] The Claymore fires steel balls out to about 100 m (110 yd) within a 60° arc in front of the device. It is used primarily in ambushes and as an anti-infiltration device against enemy infantry. It is also used against unarmored vehicles.
The L26A1 was chosen to fulfill a MOD requirement for an improved bangalore torpedo design, and is lighter and easier to use than its predecessors.
The torpedo consists of an aluminium body filled with two kilograms of DPX1 explosive; detonation produces enhanced blast and fragmentation effects which in turn provide an enhanced cutting capability against both simple and complex wire entanglements. The L26A1 is also capable of cutting through up to six millimetres of steel plating.
Up to eight L26A1s can be combined with one another, with the resulting assembly capable of defeating obstacles that are up to eight metres in length.[85][86][87]
Replacements for the long-serving PE4 plastic explosive.[88] PE7 was developed from Eurenco's HEXOMAX explosive[89] and is available in 500g block (L20A1) and 2 kg slab (L21A1) forms.[90][91] PE8 was developed by Chemring and is available in 2 kg slab (L22A1) form only.[92] Both PE7 and PE8 slabs are issued in a 20 kg logistic pack containing two 10 kg bulk packs that have five 2 kg slabs each, with the 10 kg packs being capable of use for demolitions as a complete unit; the 2 kg slabs themselves contain four 500g blocks (designated L23A1 in the case of PE8 slabs) that can be removed and used individually.[93][94]
User-filled plastic explosive containers that have replaced pre-prepared demolition charge variants in British service due to their lower cost (both in terms of acquisition and in terms of storage since unfilled containers can be stored indefinitely[98][99] while charges such as the L1A1 Necklace Charge had a shelf life of ten years[100]) and their improved safety and ease of use.[101] Both containers consist of a plastic body with a copper lining (with the conical container also including four wooden legs for an adequate standoff distance) and can be used in wet conditions without any reduction in effectiveness unless a body of water is present between the underside of the copper lining and the target; the conical container is filled with 12 kg of PE8 prior to deployment and produces a hole in the target,[102][98] while the linear container is filled with 8 kg of PE8 and produces a linear cut in the target.[103][99]
Sheet-shaped plastic explosive. The DPX9 composition provides a high level of end-user safety without reducing performance in metal cutting and other tasks.[105]
Operated by a three-man team. It is often vehicle-borne; in Armoured infantry battalions it is mounted and fired from a Bulldog armoured vehicle.[106] Around 470 are in service.[107]
High Explosive (HE), Smoke and Illumination rounds can be fired up to 5.5 km (3.4 mi) out at a rate of 15 rounds-per-minute.[108] The modernised L16A2 features GPS and laser-range finding systems, dramatically increasing the weapon's accuracy.[109]
Man-portable, short range fire-and-forget anti-tank guided missile system designed for non-expert use. It is designed to "rapidly knock out any main battle tank in just one shot by striking it from above".[110]
In December 2022, it was announced that a £229 million deal had been agreed with Saab for several thousand more NLAW units to be delivered to the British Army from 2024 - 2026.[111]
The Javelin has several modes of flight including direct and an overfly-top-attack mode in which the missile arcs high then flies down onto the top of the target, thus getting around the heavy front armour of modern tanks.
Javelin warheads are also highly effective at taking out buildings, bunkers and fixed positions. The Javelin warhead is a 'tandem' configuration : the first shaped charge is designed to penetrate the target's outer defenses, such as reactive armour, whilst the second goes on to do further damage.[112]
Disposable, man-portable guided anti-structure weapon. It is designed to destroy hardened structures, such as bunkers, buildings and other fixed positions.[113]
Launchers and training, anti-structure, and anti-tank rounds purchased in order to replenish munition stocks following the constant supplying of NLAW and MATADOR weapons to Ukraine.[114]
Alongside the LML and Stormer mounted versions, the Royal Artillery also use a shoulder-mounted, man-portable version of the Starstreak missile.[118]
After launch, the missile accelerates to more than Mach 4, making it the fastest short-range surface-to-air missile in existence. It then launches three laser beam-riding submunitions, increasing the likelihood of a successful hit on the target.[119]
The Starstreak Lightweight Multiple Launcher (LML) is a short-range, highly mobile air defence system that holds three missiles ready for firing and can be used as either a stationary launch unit or mounted on a light vehicle, such as a Land Rover. Starstreak can also be used as a surface attack weapon, capable of penetrating the frontal armour of IFVs.[123]
Soldiers equipped with Virtus Scalable Tactical Vest (STV), Virtus Helmet (Batlskin Cobra Plus), and Virtus Load Carriage System, armed with SA80A2s.
Helmet
All soldiers are now equipped with the new Virtus helmet[126] (Revision Batlskin Cobra Plus[127]) which provides increased blunt impact protection, has a lighter weight than the preceding Mk7, can be fitted with face and mandible guards for certain roles, is specially shaped to allow effective weapon usage while in a prone position and wearing body armour, and features a permanent universal night vision mount and a scalable counterweight attached to the helmet's rear in order to ease strain on the user's neck while a night vision device is equipped. The helmet allows the soldier to wear a respirator, hearing protection, goggles and/or a radio headset as necessary.[128][129]
The previous standard helmet in service was the Mk7 which replaced the older Mk6 and Mk6A helmets on operations.
The British Army uses two main combat body armour systems;
Soldier in CRBN equipment wearing Virtus helmet and vest with the General Service Respirator
The Virtus Scalable Tactical Vest (STV) is the primary body armour system used on live operations, LFTT, and firing ranges and has replaced the previously used Osprey body armour. It is 10 lbs lighter than Osprey and closer-fitting and can have its level of protection more closely scaled to the prevailing threat type. The vest also features a quick-release mechanism to aid safe extraction from hazardous situations such as burning vehicles or drowning and a dynamic weight distribution system which, when linked to a soldier's waist belt, aids in spreading the soldier's load across the back, shoulders, and hips; a mechanism in the small of the back allows the wearer to adjust the weight bias depending on the situation. The STV can be used in a variety of ways including; load carriage without armour, a fragmentation vest with soft composite armour but no hard plates, a plate carrier with no soft armour, and a full body armour system with both soft armour padding and hard plates.[126][129]
Enhanced Combat Body Armour (ECBA)[131][132][133] is a soft body armour vest that was first introduced in the 1980s and can be augmented with ceramic ballistic plates. It was used on operations until the introduction of the Osprey body armour series in 2006 and is now used solely for training purposes, primarily for non-infantry phase one training recruits.
Ancillary to regular body armour is a three-tier pelvic armour system - issued since 2010 - to mitigate against shrapnel and other blast effects. The first layer is a pair of underwear shorts manufactured from a ballistic silk material. The second layer consists of detachable pelvic body armour that is intended to be worn while 'outside the wire' to meet the greater threats faced by soldiers on patrol. The third layer consists of knee-length ballistic shorts worn over a soldier's combat trousers, offering coverage of the upper leg and wider abdominal region and designed for use by soldiers operating hand-held metal detectors to search for explosive devices or otherwise serving in a combat role where greater levels of protection are required.[134][135]
The multi-terrain pattern (MTP) combat clothing is designed to blend with the range of environments such as woodland, jungle, compounds, crops, grassland and arid stone. This change to the British camouflage pattern was the first in 40 years. The uniform is flame-retardant and insect-repellent treated.[138]
Troops on operations are issued with knee length, waterproof socks that have antimicrobial properties similar to those found in medical dressings and keep feet warmer than conventional socks.
Boots
Soldier modelling the currently issued brown boots.
In 2012, the MOD purchased a newly designed range of brown combat boots from Haix,[139] Alt-Berg,[140] and other manufacturers for the Army, Royal Marines and RAF to replace the black and Desert Combat Boot previously worn. Five different types of boots, developed to match the Multi-Terrain Pattern uniform, are available to Armed Forces personnel depending on where they are based and what role they are in. Black boots have been retained for wear with most non-camouflage uniforms as well as units on parade in full dress uniform, such as regiments performing ceremonial duties in central London.[141][142]
Desert Combat – worn by dismounted troops conducting medium to high levels of activity in desert type environments with temperatures exceeding 40 °C
Desert Patrol – worn by drivers/armoured troops conducting lower levels of activity in desert type environments exceeding 40 °C
Temperate Combat – worn by dismounted troops for medium to high levels of activity in temperate (European) climates
Patrol – worn by mounted troops (drivers/armoured troops) taking part in lower levels of activity in temperate (European) climates
Cold Wet Weather – worn by dismounted troops for medium to high levels of activity in temperatures down to −20 °C.
A Personal Role Radio (PRR) is distributed to every member of an eight-strong infantry section.[19]
It consists of a headset attached to a UHF transmitter/receiver which has 256 channels, a 500m range, 20 hour battery life, weighs 1.5 kg, and is effective through thick cover and walls and floors of buildings, increasing the communication and effectiveness of infantry fireteams.[20]
Soldier with personal load carrying equipment during a 2021 exercise.3rd Battalion, Parachute Regiment soldiers during 2020's Askari Storm exercise; donning Virtus tactical vests and helmets, PLCE-based webbing and MOLLE pouches sewn onto a hip pad, known as 'Airborne Webbing.'
The Virtus webbing system is the current primary load carrying belt system used by the British Army. It consists of a yoke, MOLLE hip belt and dynamic weight distribution (DWD) system, which provides real weight transference, allowing the soldier, while on the move, to shift the weight of the load between 100% on the shoulders to 100% on the hips and anything in-between. The soldier can choose between a variety of pouches to attach to the belt depending on the mission, including grenade, ammo, PRR, UGL, pistol magazine, medical, bayonet scabbard, water bottle, utility, commander's pouch and more.[143][144][145]
Usage of privately purchased webbing, whether based on or customised PLCE or with MOLLE compatibility, also remains a very common item. 'Airborne' webbing, which is a single unit webbing set of multiple pouches sewn or stitched directly onto a foam hip pad[146] is favoured among soldiers for its comfort, stability and durability.[147][148][149]
Personal load carrying equipment (PLCE), officially known as 95 pattern webbing, is an older webbing system issued temporarily solely for training purposes during phase 1 'basic' training for non-infantry recruits, to carry ammunition, food and water, protective equipment, and other individual supplies. The webbing consists of a belt, a yoke harness, and various belt pouches. The system also consists of two daysacks (backpacks) for use with the Combat Order; these can be attached to a larger 'Bergen' rucksack for use with the Marching Order.[150] The Osprey body armour and webbing series,[128] the later Virtus scalable tactical vest and webbing,[151] and various items associated with either system such as daysacks all feature MOLLE loops for direct attachment of load carrying pouches, thus obviating the need for and mostly supplanting the earlier PLCE webbing.[129]
PLCE sets have previously been manufactured in the newer MTP camouflage pattern, and both this webbing and earlier DPM webbing (due to the quantity of webbing produced and the durability of its construction and materials, and soldiers personal preference) continues to see occasional usage, particularly during training situations which often see soldiers either wearing the non-MOLLE Enhanced Combat Body Armour vest or wearing no armour at all.[152][153]
Regardless of the particular load carrying system used by any given soldier, Army doctrine prescribes that it should be capable of holding everything that a soldier needs to operate in the field for up to 24 hours without resupply in Fighting Order, for up to 48 hours without resupply in Patrol Order and for up to two weeks without resupply in Marching Order..[154]
Ajax is the replacement for the CVR(T) tracked reconnaissance vehicles and variants.[160]
There are six variants in the Ajax family; Ajax, Athena, Ares, Apollo, Atlas, Argus.[161] Ajax family variants will be used by the Royal Armoured Corps cavalry and Household Cavalry armoured reconnaissance, Royal Artillery fire support teams, armoured Royal Engineers units, and armoured REME units.[161]
Royal Army Medical Service regiments; 1st Medical Regiment, 2nd Medical Regiment and 3rd Medical Regiment use an ambulance variant.[175]
Bulldog will be replaced by a yet to be determined platform with procurement activity starting in 2025.[176]
Mastiff is a heavily armoured 6×6-wheel drive patrol vehicle which carries eight troops, plus two crew, and is fitted with ECMs and bowman radios.[177]
Ridgeback is a 4×4-wheel drive variant of the Mastiff, and provides protected mobility in urban and urban-fringe environments. It comes in three variants: battlefield ambulance, command variant and troop carrying vehicles.[177]
The 6×6 Wolfhound is a tactical support variant of the Mastiff and is used to accompany front line patrols and carry essential combat supplies such as water and ammunition.[178]
The Supacat HMT 400 4×4 designated the Jackal 2 equips the Light Cavalry regiments of the Royal Armoured Corps, as well as the Light Recce Strike Infantry.[181] The vehicle is used as a platform for reconnaissance, rapid assault, fire support and convoy protection. The vehicle has a crew of two plus one and a range of 800 km, and has a special air-bag suspension system that allows rapid movement of the vehicle across varying terrain.[182]
Armament includes a 7.62mm GPMG and either a .50-calibre HMG or 40 mm GMG as the main weapon system.[182]
The Supacat HMT 600 6×6 designated the Coyote is a tactical support variant (TSV) of the Jackal, that allows transportation of supplies and equipment over similar terrain, up to 1.5 tonnes.[183][182]
An order for 70 Supacat Extenda Mk2 vehicles that can be configured as 4×4 or 6×6 was placed in February 2023 with Supacat.[184][185] The vehicles will be designated the Jackal 3.[186] The contract has an option of acquiring a total of 240 vehicles.[184][185]
Foxhound is lighter and smaller than other protected vehicles and has a top speed of 70 mph, but can still protect against improvised explosive devices thanks to its v-shaped hull.[189]
Originally procured as an Urgent Operational Requirement (UOR) for service in Afghanistan, the Command and Liaison Vehicle (CLV) is now in use with liaison officers and commanders & sergeant majors of armour, armoured recce, armoured infantry, engineer troops, anti-tank, mortar and supporting fire platoons.[191] The CLV can be configured as a scout, command & liaison vehicle or as a weapons platform, equipped with the 7.62MM GPMG on an Enforcer Remote Weapon Station (RWS).[190] The Panther's role will be carried out by Foxhound and Boxer variants in the future.[192]
The L131 AS-90 is a 155mm self-propelled howitzer and is the largest piece of field artillery in the British Army. The L131 is operated by these field artillery regiments: 1st Regiment RHA, 19th Regiment RA.[196] To be replaced by 116 RCH 155s, fitted onto the Boxer mechanised infantry vehicle.[197]
Deal with Sweden announced on 16 March 2023 for an interim system to replace part of the 32 AS-90 transferred to Ukraine. They became operational from April 2024. All systems were delivered to the UK by July 2024.[200][197]
The Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) is to be upgraded to use the Guided MLRS Extended Range (GMLRS-ER) missile and the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) by 2025, which have ranges of 150 km (93 mi) and 499 km (310 mi), respectively.[202]
61 M270 MLRS are on order to be modernised, with 15 additional planned to be contracted in 2025, for a total of 76 by the end of 2029.[201]
Rafael’s Exactor 2 is a new breed of long-range precision-guided weapon that can successfully engage targets at 25-30 kilometres.
The system can be operated automatically, which means that the missile independently guides itself to the selected target without interference (fire-and-forget) or it can be controlled by a human operator (man-in-the-loop) which enables manual control of the missile.[205]
Sky Sabre is the British Army's version of the Common Anti-Aircraft Modular Missile (CAMM), Sky Sabre became operational in January 2022, replacing Rapier. The system can control 24 missiles simultaneously and guide them to intercept 24 separate targets to a range of 25km, or 45km with the [clarification needed].[208]
The Starstreak SP HVM is mounted on the Alvis Stormer tracked vehicle with an eight-round launcher and internal stowage for a further 12 missiles. The Starstreak HVM (High Velocity Missile) is designed to counter threats from very high performance, low-flying aircraft and fast 'pop up' strikes by helicopters.[123]
5 radar systems used for counter-battery operations, replacing previous generation MAMBA. The new systems can locate a greater number of targets at extended ranges while reducing electronic warfare signatures, using Saab’s Digital Antenna technology.[212]
Trojan is based on the Challenger 2 chassis and is designed to breach through enemy defences, such as walls or fortifications, and clear paths through minefields. The Trojan is equipped with the Python minefield breaching system.[214]
Provides mobility support (obstacle and route clearance), counter-mobility (digging of anti-tank ditches and other obstacles) and survivability (digging of trenches and armoured fighting vehicle slots).[217]
Based on the Challenger 1 chassis and is designed to recover and repair damaged or incapacitated Challenger 2 tanks, but is also powerful enough to recover other heavy armoured vehicles such as the AS-90.[218][219]
An unspecified number of CRARRVs have been donated to the Ukrainian Ground Forces alongside a squadron of Challenger 2 tanks in 2023.[220]
Operated by 'Recovery Mechanics' from the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers.[221]
The Oshkosh HET 1070F is the Heavy Equipment Transport System (HET) of the British Army. The Heavy Equipment Transporters are capable of carrying a 72-tonne main battle tank and are responsible for the strategic transportation of armoured vehicles over land.[222]
The Oshkosh Wheeled Tanker forms the backbone of the British Army's bulk fuel and water transportation. The tanker can be fitted with enhanced blast-proof armour for driver protection and General Purpose Machine Guns.[225]
The Tank Bridge Transporter (TBT) has the same cross-country performance as a tank even when fully loaded. It can carry a No 10 Bridge or 2 × No 12 Bridges (Close Support Bridge) of the BR90 family of bridges. It can deploy, drop off and load bridges independently, but it cannot recover them.[226]
The M3 Amphibious Rigs are vehicles operated by a 3-man crew. The M3 Rigs can drive into the water, open up and join together to create a bridge of varying length. A 100m bridge can be constructed using 8 rigs.[227]
The MAN family of support vehicles have gradually replaced all previous cargo vehicles currently in service. Consisting of 6/9/15 tonne variants, 4x4/6x6/8x8 retrospective. They have good mobility and the ability to be fitted with armour and General Purpose Machine Guns.[229]
A total of 382 vehicles were converted in to EPLS Mk.3 systems.[230]
The Enhanced Pallet Load System (EPLS) is based on the 15-tonne SV variant. It is fitted with additional armour packs to protect crew from ballistic and blast threat and forms the logistic backbone of the British Army.[232]
It is a load carrier with a 15-tonne flatrack payload, allowing the rapid loading and unloading of flatracks or 20 ft ISO containers.[233]
500 upgraded vehicles rapidly procured to augment vehicles already in service, with deliveries completed in 2024.[234]
The Land Rover Pulse battlefield ambulance has full medical facilities with the capacity to hold up to six seated casualties or four casualties on stretchers. The vehicle can be airlifted.[239]
Explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) and CBRN reconnaissance
Dragon Runner is a lightweight, back-packable, multi-terrain robot capable of detecting a variety of devices without putting the operator in harm's way, which helps bomb disposal experts find and deactivate improvised explosive devices (IEDs).[240]
The T7 EOD UGV is equipped with high-definition cameras, lightning-fast datalinks, an adjustable manipulation arm, and tough all-terrain treads, allowing them to neutralise a wide range of explosive threats.
The T7 replaces the previously used Wheelbarrow Mk8B.[241] The robot is purpose-built to operate in extreme conditions and offers support for high-calibre EOD disruptors. Its unique haptic grip controller also provides precision critical to complex tasks, keeping soldiers out of harm’s way, and saving lives.[242][243]
GASKET 3 is the Heavy EOD response vehicle and carries the T7 bomb disposal RCV and bespoke EOD equipment such as the Mk 6 bomb suit, X-ray equipment and other specialist tools.[244]
In 2022, Supacat delivered the physical integration of the latest chemical, biological, nuclear and radiological sensing equipment, RBSL having completed the engineering work required to upgrade the CBRN vehicles.[248]
MITER vehicle fleet
A truck operated by the Royal Engineers is pictured delivering materials for the construction of a new road in Helmand, Afghanistan called Route Trident.
The job of the Royal Engineers is to restrict the enemy's ability to advance, while also allowing friendly combat forces the freedom to maneuver as necessary. Other tasks undertaken are bomb disposal, construction of fortifications, runways, roads and bridges and the improvement of existing infrastructure to support operations – such as improving existing roads for logistic convoys. To achieve this, they operate a large and diverse fleet of vehicles.[249]
In August 2020, AmeyBriggs (new joint venture between Amey plc and Briggs Defence)[250] was awarded a seven year, £240m contract to maintain, manage and support the British Army's fleet of earth-moving, engineer construction and mechanical handling capabilities.[251] The C-vehicle Capability, Defence Mechanical Handling Equipment (DMHE), and Protected Engineering Equipment contracts now form part of the new consolidated MITER contract.[252]
AmeyBriggs now provides the British Army with a wide range of earthmoving, construction and materials handling/lifting equipment to support their worldwide training and operational requirements.[253]
Approximately 900 Grizzly 450 quad bikes are used as light transport for food, water and ammunition to the front line in difficult to access areas or where larger vehicles are not suitable, effectively moving alongside dismounted troops. They also have the ability to evacuate two casualties at a time, thereby speeding up emergency aid.[257]
United Kingdom Special Forces
In 2001, 65 Supacat High Mobility Transporter (HMT) 400 vehicles were ordered under Project Minacity after being in development since the late 1990s.[258][259] The Minacity vehicles entered service in 2003 in Afghanistan.[260][261] In 2007, the Ministry of Defence ordered the HMT 400 for regular forces, designated as the Jackal.[258][262][261]
In 2008, 24 Australian Bushmaster armoured vehicles were purchased for the UKSF for operations in Iraq.[263][264][265] The Bushmasters were fitted with additional armour, counter-IED electronics, and a .50 calibre machine gun mounted in a RWS.[264]
The Rigid Raider is used by the Royal Engineers and is sometimes used in rivers and during amphibious operations, while the Inflatable Raiding Craft, being small and flexible, is also utilised by the Army at times, as a raiding craft to get soldiers quickly across water in small groups, and in other tasks such as flood relief.[271]
SAS Boat Troops also utilise these raiding craft, Boat Troop's role covers many aspects of amphibious warfare, although the emphasis is on amphibious insertion/extraction, and demolitions, including attacking ships in harbours with magnetic limpet mines.[272]
An Inflatable Raiding Craft (IRC)
Army Workboat
Four boats in service,[273] operated by 17 Port and Maritime Regiment and 165 Port and Maritime Regiment, Royal Logistic Corps as small tugs and general purpose work-boats in support of amphibious operations. They have a displacement of 48 tonnes and a maximum speed of 10 knots. The Army Workboat can be used as tugs for Mexeflotes, positioning other pontoon equipment and for handling flexible pipelines.[274] It is also used for assisting with firefighting and the provision of fuel (i.e. fuel being delivered across water.).[271]
Both the Royal Engineers and 17 Port and Maritime Regiment and 165 Port and Maritime Regiment, Royal Logistic Corps also make use of the Combat Support Boat since it is capable of being used to support bridging and amphibious operations as well as inland water patrolling and ship-to-shore resupply (it can carry 2 tonnes of cargo or 12 personnel) and diving operations. It is also relatively quick, with a top speed of 30 knots.[271]
Future equipment
Infantry equipment
Future assault rifle, Project Grayburn
Replacement project for the SA80, expected to be delivered in 2026. The current Out of Service Date (OSD) for the SA80 rifle is 2030.[275] The new weapon system will consist of a rifle using a common lower receiver group and a variable upper receiver group based on role, likely of a conventional layout rather than a bullpup, with up to four variants.[276]
Thermal sight
In March 2023, the 2nd Battalion, Royal Yorkshire Regiment trialled working with the Thermal Clip-On Sight, known as TCOS, which is mounted on their helmet. This allows infantry soldiers to see a combined thermal and night vision picture while undertaking activities rather than having to stop and look through a weapon sight.[277]
Artillery
Mobile Fires Platform programme
The RCH-155 - Britain's future self propelled howitzer
The Mobile Fires Platform (MFP) programme will replace the AS90 with a new 155 mm self-propelled howitzer to equip the Royal Artillery.[278][279] On 24 April 2024, the UK announced its selection of the RCH-155. The vehicles will be built in both Germany and the UK and will comprise over 100 UK-sourced components. The platform will consist of the Remote-Controlled Howitzer 155 mm (RCH 155) weapon module fitted to the rear half of the Boxer mechanised infantry vehicle (MIV) and will be in service with the Royal Artillery by the end of the decade.[280][281]
This programmes intends to replace 15 vehicles types with 5 platforms.[284][285] A total of 1,400 vehicles is planned to be purchased with this programme.[286]
Medium Protected Mobility whose role will consist of command and control, ISTAR, GBAD, CBRN, ambulance, tactical support. These vehicles will replace the Ridgeback (4×4), the Mastiff (6×6) and the Wolfhound (6×6).
Light Protected Mobility whose role will consist of command and liaison, command and control, patrol tasks, ISTAR, GBAD, CBRN, tactical support and utility. These vehicles will replace the Stormer HVM, the FV430 Bulldog, the Iveco LMV (Panther) and the Foxhound.
Light Mobility Vehicle whose role will consist of general support and utility. These vehicles will replace the Land Rover Defender and the Pinzgauer. Some of the potential successors presented in September 2024 at DVD include:[287]
Light Tactical Mobility Platform Medium (LTMP Medium, Contract Number 704573452) [288] Up to 863 vehicles (side-by-side type)
48 to be procured initially
815 in option
Light Tactical Mobility Platform Light (LTMP Light, Contract Number: 703466451) [289] Up to 311 vehicles (ATV type)
156 to be procured initially
155 in option
Motorcycles
The Parachute Regiment began trialling the Sur-Ron Fireflyelectric motorcycle in 2021, "for recce, infiltration, but also for communications between positions where you need to pass messages on the man, like we’ve done for hundreds of years, but in a situation where electronic communication is jammed or intercepted.”[290][291]
The Ministry of Defence selected the RheinmetallMission Master SP for its Robotic Platoon Vehicles program in 2022. The British Army ordered the Surveillance Autonomous Unmanned Ground Vehicle (A-UGV) in two variants; four in an ISTAR configuration, and three in a cargo configuration.[292][293]
In March 2023, the first ever UK trial of heavy uncrewed ground systems (H-UGVs) took place. Held over two weeks at the Armoured Trials and Development Unit in Bovington, Dorset, the H-UGVs underwent stringent trials to test their effectiveness in battlefield situations. The trial saw three companies selected to take part to showcase their platforms: Elbit with its Robust, Milrem and its Type X, and Rheinmetall with its Wiesel.[294]
Aerial platforms
Unmanned aerial vehicles
The Hydra 400 jet-propelled drone, which provides a maximum lift of 400 kg and fires Brimstone laser-guided missiles, was showcased at DSEI 2023, and will be tested during the next phase of the Army’s Warfighting Experiment (AWE).[295]
Air defence
SHORAD
The British Army is considering procuring a new mobile short-range air defence (SHORAD) system on an interim basis to replace the Stormer-based Starstreak High Velocity Missile systems that were provided to Ukraine in 2022.[296][297]
Land Laser Directed Energy Weapon (LDEW)
At DSEI 2023, Raytheon UK announced that its high-energy laser weapon system, a product of the MoD’s Land Demonstrator programme, is operationally ready and will be integrated onto a Wolfhound vehicle for testing.[298] The 15-kilowatt laser will be used to stop aerial threats such as unmanned aerial vehicles.[299]
In July 2024, it was announced that the weapon had been trialled for the first time on a British Army vehicle at Dstl’s range in Porton Down. The laser weapon neutralised targets such as enemy drones at distances in excess of 1km with 15kW of power. The system can track multiple targets and engage at the speed of light, costing just £10 per shot. The weapon was tested on the Wolfhound armoured vehicle, however it can be mounted on various platforms to meet different operational needs.[300][301]
The next trial will be held in September 2024, when the system will engage dynamic targets.[302]
Communications
The British Army's future "broadband for the battlefield" is the Trinity Wide Area Network (WAN). Trinity, which is to be in service by late 2025, will be able to "handle 100 times more data than the current Falcon internet system", due to be retired by 2026. The Army also plans to fit Trinity nodes to the Boxer armoured vehicle.[303][304]
^"Glock 17". Ministry of Defence. Archived from the original on 1 July 2014. Retrieved 5 May 2014.
^Ministry of Defence (United Kingdom) (2014). Army Code No. 71996, DCC Training Volume II, Skill at Arms (Personal Weapons), General Service Pistol L131A1.
^ abMinistry of Defence (2004). Army Code No. 71807, Infantry Training Volume II, Pamphlet No. 5 The SA80 A2 (5.56 mm) System (Rifle, Light Support Weapon and Carbine) and Associated Equipment.
^ abMinistry of Defence (2015). Army Code No. 71807, Infantry Training Volume II, Pamphlet No. 5 The SA80 A2 (5.56 mm) System (Rifle, Light Support Weapon and Carbine) and Associated Equipment.
^Secretariat, Defence Equipment and Support (2 July 2019). "FOI2019/06669"(PDF). Whatdotheyknow. Retrieved 3 July 2019. They have been replaced by the L84A3 red phosphorous (sic) smoke grenade
^Chemring Energetics UK (2018). "CEUK Demolition Stores Capability Brochure"(PDF). Retrieved 20 January 2020. New international regulations introducing taggants – microscopic identifiers – to the manufacturing process meant the UK MOD required a new generation of plastic explosive. The UK MOD identified that this was also the opportunity to replace its Second World War technology – where soldiers had to unwrap each stick of plastic explosive and, in many cases, tie them together – with a new product that was easier and quicker to use.
^Ministry of Defence (United Kingdom) (1980). Army Code No. 60777 Pt.1, Mine A/Tank HE Blast L9 L17 & L18 (Barmine), General Arrangement & Sectioned View.
^Cpl Russ Nolan RLC (25 December 2006). "HQMND(SE)-2006-222-151.jpg". Defence Imagery. Retrieved 29 March 2024. Soldiers from 11 Squadron 38 Regiment Royal Engineer prepare to demolish the Al Jameat Police station by placing bar mines on the major structure points.
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