It follows a pause in all training, exercises and trials for the Ajax armoured fighting vehicle after noise and vibration injuries to troops on Exercise Titan Storm.
As this magazine went to press shortly before Christmas, the politician confirmed that probes by the Defence Accident Investigation Branch and the Army Safety Investigation Team were ongoing, as well as a ministerial review.
“The teams are conducting their work thoroughly and at pace and they must be given the time and space required to ensure that all information and evidence is considered,” he said – adding that the 23 vehicles involved in the exercise had undergone further inspections, the outcome of which would be reported in the New Year.
“I met with General Dynamics last week and I continue to have regular meetings with the chief of the general staff, the army and officials,” Pollard added.
“As I told Parliament last week, it is unacceptable for the safety of our personnel to be at risk.”
