DVD 2024
DVD 2024 made for a power representation of the UK’s land forces with at least 15 vehicle programmes on display. Throughout, a constant theme is the drive to reinvigorate the UK’s defence manufacturing industry. Many of those that spoke with EDR On-Line mentioned the Land Industrial Strategy, and the need to onshore as much of their product as possible. It is clear that if the British Army does manage to secure every one of those programmes, it will be a remarkably different force by 2030. This is no doubt good news for Chief of the General Staff, Sir Roly Walker, who has set the goal of doubling the Army’s lethality by 2027 and treble it by 2030.
However, there is also a notable tension amongst all of these generation-defining capabilities. The show included several Boxer variants that have not yet been ordered; capabilities like the bridging Boxer or the Armoured Recovery Module, and of course the Armoured Mortar Variant, which was shown as a concept demonstrator equipped with a NEMO turret from Patria. Boxer is set to be the primary vehicle of the UK’s Mechanised Infantry Regiments, but they will struggle to fulfil their role as part of an Armoured Brigade Combat Team without organic recovery and fire support elements. Added to this is the apparent belief within the UK’s industry that there is a requirement on the horizon for a turreted Boxer variant.
Why does this matter? Well, it matters because these additional Boxer variants – outside of the 623 already ordered – are not the only capabilities that do seem to have a clear path to funding. Key fighting platforms like Challenger 3 and Ajax are contracted and on their way to delivery. The Royal Artillery is getting to grips with its new fleet of Archers and BAE is getting ready to deliver 60 BvS10s under the Future All-Terrain Vehicles programme, which will equip the UK’s commando force. However, other critical capabilities such as Ground-Based Air Defence, Land Protected Mobility, the Battle Group Organic Anti-Armour systems, as well as the Boxer RCH155, which was selected for the UK’s Mobile Fires Platform requirement in April this year, or the hope for an infantry fighting vehicle variant of Ares, have no clear route to contract or tendering.
This is largely down to the change in administration and the decision to undertake a strategic defence and security review. Undoubtedly, the British MoD is facing financial pressure, despite reasonably responsible steps taken by the previous administration to remain within its budget, dramatic changes in interest rates are likely to have had an impact on its budget. Overall, the event was encouraging, it indicated a renewed faith in the UK’s defence industry and hopes of a resurgent defence industry. However, this growth will all depend upon reliable support and investment from the British government.
Hereafter EDR On-Line readers will find articles about the main novelties seen at UTAC Millbrook, Bedfordshire, on 18th and 19th September.
Babcock details solutions to supply chain obsolescence
Babcock teams with ST Engineering, to offer 120 mm mortar to the UK
Rheinmetall and Patria present NEMO-Boxer for UK’s armoured mortar requirement
Nurol Makina UK expands horizon with three new UK products and factory
