The British Army is set to take delivery of over 180 Ajax armoured vehicles by 31 December 2025, according to Defence Minister Maria Eagle. The announcement marks a significant step forward for the long-delayed Armoured Cavalry Programme.
Responding to parliamentary questions from Ben Obese-Jecty MP, Minister Eagle reaffirmed that the programme remains on track, referencing a previous statement from July 2024.
“The Armoured Cavalry Programme (Ajax) is projecting the delivery of over 180 operationally deployable platforms by the end of 2025,” Eagle stated.
The £5.5 billion Ajax programme has faced multiple setbacks, including noise and vibration issues that resulted in a temporary halt to trials. Originally expected to enter service in 2017, the project has suffered from significant delays, cost overruns, and concerns over crew safety.
Despite these challenges, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) maintains that Ajax will be a key component of the British Army’s modernisation efforts under the Future Soldier transformation plan. While no official date has been given for Initial Operating Capability (IOC), the projected delivery of over 180 vehicles suggests progress towards frontline integration.
The focus now shifts to whether Ajax will meet operational expectations or require further adjustments before full deployment. With the programme advancing, the British Army is expected to begin receiving substantial numbers of Ajax vehicles by the end of the year.
