List of equipment of the British Army: Difference between revisions

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This is a list of the equipment currently in use by the British Army. It includes small arms, combat vehicles, aircraft, boats, artillery and transport vehicles. The primary task of the British Army is to help defend the interests of the United Kingdom, but it can also serve as part of a North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) force, or a United Nations (UN) or any other multi-national force. To meet its commitments the equipment of the army is constantly updated and modified. To meet any shortage or requirement on operations the army can request equipment under an Urgent Operational Requirement (UOR) which supplements planned equipment programmes.^[1]

Pistols

Browning Hi Power GP35 (L9A1)

The 9-mm Browning L9A1 is the general issue pistol for self-defence. The Browning is a self-loading pistol using the standard NATO 9-mm round. It has been in service since 1954 and has proven to be a reliable, accurate and robust weapon.^[2][3]

P226 SIG (L105A1, L105A2 and L106A1)

Variants of the P226 SIG Sauer were procured as a replacement for the Browning in certain units, and as a UOR (Urgent Operational Requirement) for use in Afghanistan. The L105A1 is the original P226, the L105A2 is the railed version and the L106A1 has an improved protective finish.^{[4][failed verification]}

Glock 17

The Glock 17 has been procured, replacing the Brownings and SIGs as the British Army's standard issue sidearm. Approximately 25,000 are being procured and are due in service during 2013/14.^[5]

Rifles and shotguns

Rifle 5.56 (SA80A2)

The standard issue rifle is the (Bullpup configuration) L85A2, known popularly as the SA80. The L85A2 can be fitted with a SUSAT 4× or ACOG 4×32 TA31A optical sights and a LLM01 laser aiming and torch attachment. It is fed by a 30 round magazine.^[6] There is also a carbine version, the L22A2, in service.^[7] An under-slung grenade launcher (UGL) can also be fitted to the L85 rifle. The grenade launcher is a single shot weapon with a side opening breech loading action, taking a 40-mm high explosive round. The UGL has a range of 350 meters for area targets. The sighting system is a ladder sight mounted onto the left of the weapon.^[8]

Light Support Weapon (L86A2)

The L86A2 Light Support Weapon (LSW) is similar to the L85 and has been in service since 1986. It has a longer barrel, a bipod and shoulder strap fitted for greater range and accuracy. Many of the weapon's parts are interchangeable with the L85, including the same 30 round magazine. The LSW is capable of producing a high rate of accurate rapid fire at ranges up to 800 meters.^[6]

Sharpshooter rifle (L129A1)

A sharpshooter rifle based on Law Enforcement Internationals 7.62-mm calibre LM7, was chosen by the MoD as a replacement for the AI L96 used by designated marksmen/sharpshooters.^[9]

The L129A1 7.62×51mm calibre, longer range (800 m), semi-automatic rifle, will replace the bolt action Accuracy International L96 in the Sharpshooter role.^[10] A total of 440 Sharpshooter rifles were initially bought as a £1.5m urgent operational requirement, however since then at least 1500 rifles have been delivered.^[11] It is the first new infantry combat rifle to be issued for more than 20 years.^[10][12] The standard weapon sight is the ACOG with 400 of them on order.^[13]

Heckler & Koch HK417

The HK417 is a 7.62-mm rifle. Unconfirmed reports say has been issued to United Kingdom Special Forces.^[10]

Sniper rifle (L96)

The 7.62-mm L96 sniper's rifle was designed to achieve a first-round hit at 600 m and harassing fire out to 1,100 m. The Accuracy International L96 has been upgraded with a 3-12 × 50 sight and spotting scope.^[14]

Long-range rifle (L115A3)

Nearly 600 of the long-range rifles have been ordered to replace the L96. The L115A3 has a scope that can magnify the target up to 25 times, a suppressor to reduce flash and noise, a folding stock and a five-round magazine. With a range of about a mile, the new weapon is being rolled out alongside the broader Sniper System Improvement programme. The L115A3 Long Range Rifle fires an 8.58-mm bullet, which is heavier than the 7.62mm round of the L96, and is less likely to be deflected by wind over extremely long ranges.^[14][15]

Barrett M82

The Barrett M82 is a .50 calibre recoil-operated, semi-automatic anti-matériel rifle. The British Army uses the M82A1 version.^[16]

Combat Shotgun (L128A1)

The Combat Shotgun is a semi-automatic, tubular magazine fed weapon chambered for the 12 gauge cartridge. It has a capacity of eight rounds and a maximum effective range of 140 metres for solid shot and 40 metres for buckshot.^[17]

C8 Carbine (L119A1)

The Colt Canada C8 carbine is chambered to fire the standard 5.56×45mm NATO C77 cartridge, The C8 is used by the Pathfinder platoon of the Parachute Regiment and United Kingdom special forces, it has also been reported to have been used by the special forces support group (SFSG).

Machine guns

FN Minimi light machine gun (L108A1/L110A1)

The Minimi light machine gun (LMG) is issued to the infantry and some other units to improve their firepower over that provided by the L85 and L86. It is a 5.56x45mm NATO calibre belt-fed machine gun. It is used primarily with its bipod so it can provide a level of sustained fire not possible with the LSW with its 30-round magazine. The L110A1 is the "paratrooper" version, equipped with a shortened barrel and a collapsible stock and is now issued one per four man infantry fireteam.^[18]

FN Minimi 7.62 machine gun

In use in small numbers from 2011^[19]

General-Purpose Machine Gun (L7A2)

The L7 General-Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG) is the UK's version of the FN MAG. Often referred to as the 'gimpy', it can be fired from a bipod in the light role up to 800 m or from a tripod in the sustained fire (SF) role up to 1,800 m, although this falls to 1,100 m in low light conditions, as this is the range at which tracer burns out. Experienced gunners are able to use the weapon in the indirect fire role accurately out to 3,000 m from the SF platform as Map Predicted Fire (MPF.) Unlike the MAG, the GPMG has a ten position gas regulator enabling barrels to be balanced to the weapon, which increases accuracy and reduces wear which in turn prolongs the life of the weapon. It is a 7.62×51mm NATO–calibre weapon. Other versions are mounted on various vehicles, boats and helicopters. It is also mounted as coaxial armament in combat vehicles.^[20]

Heavy machine gun (L2A1)

The L2 Heavy Machine Gun (HMG) of the British Army is a version of the M2 Browning. It is a 12.7×99mm NATO (.50 BMG) calibre weapon. It can be mounted on a tripod or on pedestal mounts on vehicles.^[21]

Heckler & Koch 40mm Grenade Machine Gun

The Heckler & Koch 40-mm Grenade Machine Gun (GMG) provides a high rate of fire combined with the fragmentation effect of a mortar. The GMG is usually mounted on Jackal (MWMIK) vehicles but can also be used from tripods.^[22]

Mortars

51 mm Light Mortar (L9A1)

The 51 mm mortar is a light weapon which can be carried and fired by one man. Smoke, illuminating and high explosive bombs are available. The 51-mm mortar, which replaced the 2-in version, was due to be phased out by the use of the newer 40-mm AG36 UGL (Underslung Grenade Launcher) mounted on the SA-80. However operational experience has led to the decision to replace it with a 60-mm mortar^[23]

60 mm Mortar (M6-895)

The Hirtenberger M6-895 60-mm Mortar was procured as an UOR. It can be fired in both the direct and indirect roles at a rate of 1–12 rounds a minute and can be operated in the hand-held mode. The 640 60-mm Mortar has been procured as a UOR to replace the current 51-mm Mortar on current operations.^[24]

81 mm mortar (L16)

The L16A2 81-mm mortar is a medium calibre weapon which is operated by a three man team. It is often vehicle-borne, and in mechanised infantry battalions is mounted and fired from an FV432 vehicle.^[25]

Anti-tank weapons

Name	Origin	Type	Number	Notes
MBT LAW	Sweden  United Kingdom	Anti-tank missile launcher	14,000
AT4	Sweden	Anti-tank weapon
M72 LAW	United States	Anti-tank weapon
AGM-114 Hellfire	United States  United Kingdom	Anti-tank guided missile	3,120
BGM-71 TOW	United States	Anti-tank guided missile	34,000
FGM-148 Javelin	United States  United Kingdom	Anti-tank guided missile	6,371

Anti-structure weapons

Light Anti-Structures Missile (L72A9)

Originally designated as the "Rocket 66mm HEAT L1A1" M72 LAW, it has been replaced in the anti-tank role but has been modified for structure demolition purposes, the main difference is the warhead, the LASM contains about 1 kg of an enhanced blast explosive, whereas the LAW contains about a third of a kilogramme.^[26]

Anti-Structures Munition

The Anti-Structures Munition is a man-portable infantry weapon specifically designed to defeat hardened structures. The contract for development of the system was awarded to Dynamit Nobel Defence in 2006. Expected in-service date is sometime in 2010.^{[27][needs update]}

Protective equipment

Mk.6 and Mk.7 Helmet

The standard helmet is the Mk.6; it is in the process of being replaced by the Mk.7. The Mk.7 helmet is equipped with a new harness that keeps the helmet more stable on the head when night vision equipment is fitted. It is also better integrated with new weapon sights, making it easier to use in a variety of fighting positions.^[28]

Osprey and Osprey Assault body armour

Since 2006 troops in Afghanistan (and until 2009 Iraq), have been issued with Osprey body armour. This has provided much better protection than previous body armour systems.^[28] The new Osprey Assault body armour, which is currently replacing Osprey, will provide the same ballistic protection, while improving the comfort of personnel on operations in Afghanistan. It has all the stopping power of the current body armour but is closer fitting, less bulky and is easier to move in. It is specifically developed to meet the British Army's requirements, using cutting edge materials and manufacturing technology.^[29]

CBRN equipment

General Service Respirator

The General Service Respirator is replacing the S10 respirator. It has also been issued to the Royal Navy, the RAF and the RFA.^[30]

Communications equipment and personnel equipment

BOWMAN

Bowman is the tactical C4I system being issued to British forces to replace the Clansman.

Mobile Artillery Battlefield Radar

The Mobile Artillery Battlefield Radar is a weapon-locating radar. It is air portable, and deployed with 5 Regt, RA. It automatically detects and locates (both firing positions and impact) multiple artillery, rockets and mortars.^[31]

MSTAR

MSTAR is a lightweight all-weather battlefield radar designed to detect helicopters, vehicles and infantry to a range in excess of 20 km. MSTAR is used by artillery Observation Parties (OPs) to detect where artillery shells are landing in relation to the target. It weighs 30 kg and is either stand alone or mounted in a vehicle.^[32]

Black Hornet Nano Unmanned Air Vehicle

The Black Hornet Nano UAV measures 10 cm x 2.5 cm and provides troops with local situational awareness. The Black Hornet is equipped with a camera which gives troops reliable full-motion video and still images it can be used to peer around corners or over walls and other obstacles to identify any hidden dangers and the images are displayed on a handheld terminal 160 units will be purchased under current plans.^[33][34]

Surveillance System and Range Finder

This system allows a soldier to quickly establish the location and distance of enemy forces and gives the soldier advice as to with is the most appropriate mortar or artillery firepower to use. The system is all-weather, day and night system has built-in GPS.^[32]

Reacher Satellite Ground Terminal

Reacher is a mobile X-Band SGT It comes in three variants:

• Reacher Large, mounted on a MOWAG Duro III
• Reacher Medium, mounted on a MOWAG Duro III
• Reacher RM, mounted on a BV206 vehicles

The Large variant can be transported by C-17 Globemaster III and the Medium and RM variants by Hercules.^[35]

Joint Operational Command System

The JOCS provides digitised tools for controlling joint operations. With the formation of the Joint Rapid Reaction Force the requirement for a joint computer system was formed. This system provides a sophisticated operational picture, along with staff tools for controlling joint operations.^[36]

Army Tactical Computer System

The Army Tactical Computer System (ATacCS) provides the Army with a LAN and WAN based command and control system across the battlespace.^[37]

Personal Role Radio

Personal Role Radio (PRR) is distributed to every member of an eight-strong infantry section.^[38]

Falcon Secure Trunk Communication System

The Falcon Secure Trunk Communication System provides secure communications infrastructure for deployed formations and operating bases. it helps to deliver an information infrastructure that will provide the UK Armed Forces with the network enabled capability required in the 21st century. It is designed to operate with other communication and information systems such as Bowman, Cormorant and SKYNET V, and will be compatible with other NATO systems. The system provides the telephones and data distribution when deployed.^[39]

DII(F)

Defence Information Infrastructure is one of the largest information infrastructure programmes in Europe. It will provide a computing infrastructure and services that will enable sharing of information and collaborative working to a variety of groups and individuals including those that currently have limited or no connectivity. Ultimately it will provide around 300,000 user accounts on approximately 150,000 terminals across about 2,000 MoD sites worldwide. DII will be central to transforming the capability of the Armed Forces by providing Network Enabled Capability through a single network of information. It will extend into the operational arena, interface with battlespace systems and improve shared information between headquarters, battlefield support and the front line, allowing greater interoperability between the MoD and its allies.^[40]

DII is being delivered in Increments. Increment 1 will provide DII(F) to around 70,000 desktops and 200,000 user accounts. Increment 2 looks at Deployed services and services to the Above Secret environment. The service ranges geographically from the office environment in headquarters to forward deployed units anywhere in the world.

Personal Load Carrying Equipment

Soldiers need to carry ammunition, water, food and protective equipment. They use Personal Load Carrying Equipment (PLCE), a tough, modular system of camouflaged belt, yoke and pouches. To this can be added two small rucksacks and a large rucksack for additional carrying capacity, when required.^[41]

MegaVoice

STG Media Systems has delivered 87 of the loudspeaker systems to Afghanistan for use at checkpoints and at public gatherings The ability to hear intelligible speech at 1 km allows the user to distance themselves from danger and warn the public about imminent actions being taken by, for example, IED clearance teams.^[42][43]

Boots

A new type of boot has been bought by the MOD for the Army, Royal Navy and RAF. Armed Forces personnel will have a newly designed range of brown combat boots to replace the black and desert combat footwear they currently wear. Personnel will have the choice of five different boots depending on where they are based and what role they are in.

• 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.

Each of the five boot types comes in two different styles, so personnel can wear whichever one is more comfortable for them. The new brown boots, which have been developed to match the Multi Terrain Pattern uniform worn by service personnel, will be made in two different fittings designed for the first time to take account of the different shapes of men and women's feet. The current black boots will carry on to be worn with most non-camouflage uniforms as well as units on parade in full dress uniform, such as regiments performing ceremonial duties in central London.^[44]

Skynet

Skynet is a family of military satellites, which provide strategic communication services to the three branches of the British Armed Forces and to NATO forces engaged in coalition tasks.^[45]

SMALL SATCOM

SMALL SATCOM capability consists of a SWE-DISH CCT-120 satellite ground terminal which is owned by Paradigm. The ground terminal uses the SKYNET5 network. this provides a service to users on operations worldwide. The satellite ground terminal is lightweight, easily air transportable and can be set up by a single trained operator in less than 30 minutes.^[46]

Cormorant

Cormorant system is a deployable communications network for the Joint Task Force Headquarters. it provides communications support for direct users at Joint Force and other deployed Command Headquarters. the system offers world-wide deployability and is an integral part of the broader Global Information Infrastructure concept.^[47]

Computer Networks

these systems are only used in the land environment.

OVERTASK

On Operation HERRICK (Afghanistan), the OVERTASK network is used for strategic through to the tactical levels of command. this supports applications that deliver situational awareness, office tools and collaborative working.^[48]

ARRC C2IS

as well as the core networks the HQ ARRC now have their own ARRC Command and Control Information System (ARRC C2IS) to provide a Battle Management System and office automation.^[49]

J1/J4 IOS

In addition to OVERTASK, the J1/J4 Interim Operational Support (J1/J4 IOS) system is still in operation in Afghanistan but now serves significantly more users than it was originally designed for. J1/J4 IOS supports Restricted information transfer and applications such as Joint Personal Administration.^[50]

Infantry section equipment

The infantry section normally has two four-man infantry fire teams. On operations each fire team can be equipped with the following:^[51]

Weapons

• 1 × L85A2
• 1 × L85A2 with UGL
• 1 × Minimi light machine gun
• 1 × L129A1 DMR
• 1 × 84mm Antitank Weapon
• 1 × Light Anti Structure Munition
• 4 × White Phosphorus smoke grenades
• 8 × high explosive grenades
• 4 × smoke grenades

Vision systems

• 3 × Sight Unit Small Arms, Trilux (SUSAT)
• 1 × Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight (ACOG) to be used with the L129A1 DMR
• 2 × image intensified Common Weapon Sights
• 1 × TAM 14 small Thermal Imaging System
• 1 × Head Mounted Night Vision System (HNVS)
• 2 × VIPER 2+ thermal imaging weapon sight
• 2 × commanders target locating system (CTLS)

Communications equipment

• 4 × Personal Role Radio (PRR) is issued to every member.^[38]
• 1 × Bowman secure VHF Radio

Heavy squads

Under normal conditions, an 8-man British infantry squad is armed with four L85 rifles, one with a grenade launcher, two L86 LSWs, and two FN Minimi light machine guns. For combat in Afghanistan, troops armed themselves more heavily, creating "heavy" squads. Weapons include:^[52]

• 1 × L85A2 rifle or L129A1 marksman rifle
• 1 × L85A2 with L123A2 UGL
• 2 × L86A2 LSW (one or both can be replaced with a L96A1 and/or L115A3 sniper rifle)
• 2 × L110A1 light machine gun
• 2 × L7A2 GPMG

Engineering equipment

Armoured vehicles

Armoured combat vehicles

The British Army operates in excess of 5,000 armoured combat vehicles.

Name	Origin	Type	Number[53]	Photo	Notes
Armoured combat vehicles
Challenger 2	United Kingdom	Main Battle Tank	227 (407)		The Challenger 2 (CR2) is the British Army's battle proven main battle tank, it replaced the Challenger 1 that served with distinction on operations in the Gulf War and the Balkans.[54] 227 out of 407 Challenger 2 tanks remain in operational service, the rest have been placed in storage.[55]
Warrior	United Kingdom	Infantry Fighting Vehicle	781		The Warrior IFV has the speed and performance to keep up with Challenger 2 Main Battle Tanks over the most difficult terrain, and the firepower and armour to support infantry in the assault. Warrior will be upgraded in a 1 billion pound deal with Lockheed Martin UK. The Warrior will receive an improved turret and new stabilised 40mm cannon, enabling it to fire while on the move.[56]
FV430 & FV432 Bulldog	United Kingdom	Armoured Personnel Carrier	895		The FV 430 family of armoured fighting vehicles entered service with the British Army in the 1960s, but regular maintenance and improvements including a new power train have enabled this old workhorse to remain in service into the 21st Century. They however are no longer listed on the British Army's website.
CVR(T) Scimitar CVR(T) Samaritan CVR(T) Sultan CVR(T) Samson CVR(T) Stormer	United Kingdom	Armoured Fighting Vehicle	654		Scimitar is an armoured reconnaissance vehicle (also classed as a light tank).[57] Samaritan is an armoured ambulance. Sultan is a command and control vehicle. Samson is an armoured recovery vehicle.[58] Stormer is a close air defence variant of the CVR(T) family utilizing the Starstreak missile system.[59]
Cougar Mastiff Cougar Wolfhound Cougar Ridgback	United States	Armoured Fighting Vehicle	647		Mastiff (359 in service) is the 6×6 wheel-drive infantry fighting vehicle variant of the Cougar vehicle.[60] Wolfhound (125 in service) is an Armoured tactical support variant of the Mastiff. It has a larger load-carrying ability, and will mainly operate in the logistical role, moving ammunition for Light Guns, or carrying Bulky Stores.[61] The Ridgback (168 in service) 4×4 wheel-drive infantry fighting vehicle, is nearly two metres shorter but, crucially, a metre slimmer than Mastiff, which allows troops greater access and mobility within built-up environments.
Husky	United States	Multipurpose Armoured Vehicle	327		The Husky is an armoured tactical support vehicle providing commanders with a highly mobile and flexible load carrying vehicle. It is equipped with a machine gun.[62]
Land Rover Snatch / VIXEN	United Kingdom	Multipurpose Armoured Vehicle	485		The 485 Land Rover Snatch 2s in the British Army are a Protected Patrol Vehicle, based on the Land Rover Heavy Duty Chassis. This upgraded vehicle includes armour for troops on the frontline facing IEDs and Mines. The Army has a total of 12,000+ Land Rover as it is their main light utility/patrol vehicle.[63]
Foxhound	United Kingdom	Multipurpose Armoured Vehicle	376	File:Ocelot LPPV.jpg	The Foxhound is a new armoured patrol vehicle that is intended to replace the current Land Rover Snatch. It design is specifically suited to providing protection from Improvised Explosive Devices (IED)s and so-called 'roadside bombs'. The vehicle is due to start operations by 2011. The Ministry of Defence have been adding extra Foxhounds to the fleet ever since they entered service, bringing the total number of vehicles to around 376.
Jackal Coyote	United Kingdom	Multipurpose Armoured Vehicle	320		The Jackal (250 in service) 4×4 wheel-drive is used for reconnaissance, rapid assault, fire support and convoy protection.[64] While Coyote (70 in service), a larger 6×6 wheel-drive variant is used as a tactical support vehicle.[65]
Panther	Italy	Multipurpose Armoured Vehicle	401		Panther is in use with various Commanders/Officers for Armoured, Armoured Recce and Armoured Infantry Units. Panther is also be used as the Commander's vehicle for Engineer Troops, Anti-Tank, Mortar and supporting fire platoons. Option for 400 more vehicles.[66]
Viking	United Kingdom	Armoured Fighting Vehicle (All-Terrain)	158		The Viking All Terrain Vehicle (Protected) ATV(P) is the third generation of articulated vehicles produced by BAE Systems Hagglunds of Sweden.[67]
Warthog	Singapore	Armoured Fighting Vehicle (All-Terrain)	100[68]		'Warthog' is the British Army version of the ST Kinetics Bronco ATTC. With its added payload capacity and heavier protection, it was purchased for urgent service in Afghanistan[69] It is not listed as a main vehicle under Army 2020.
Vector	United Kingdom	Protected Patrol vehicle (All-Terrain)	160		The Vector provides good protection and, importantly, increased mobility and capacity compared to the Snatch Landrover, which makes it very suitable for the rugged terrain and long patrol distances in Afghanistan.[70]
TPz Fuchs	West Germany	APC & Biological Warfare	11		The Fuchs vehicles were initially gifted to the UK for the first Gulf War, since when they have been upgraded to be one of the most technologically advanced vehicles of their type in the world. They are manned by a crew of four, Commander, Driver and two Operators. The Fuchs were the first British vehicles into Iraq of the main ground force during the first Gulf War. The vehicle is fully amphibious with a speed through water of 10 kts. It used to be part of the armoured arm of the CBRN Regiment which facilitates freedom of movement while the Land Forces advance. They have been removed fromt the ORBAT[71][72]

Artillery and air-defence

The British Army operates approximately 270 pieces of artillery and around 250 air-defence systems.

Name	Origin	Type	Number[53][73]	Photo	Notes
Artillery
AS-90	United Kingdom	Self-propelled Howitzer	89		155mm.
L118 Light Gun	United Kingdom	Towed Howitzer	138		The 105 mm Light Gun is used by the Parachute and Commando Field Artillery Regiments of the British Army.
MLRS	United States	Rocket Artillery	42	File:MLRS 05.jpg	The Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS), nicknamed the '70 km Sniper', provides pinpoint accuracy, delivering a 200 lb (91 kg) high explosive warhead to its target. It has twice the range of other artillery systems used by the British Army.
Air-defence
Rapier	United Kingdom	Air-defence Surface-to-air Missile System	24		Rapier Field Standard C is a technologically advanced Short Range Air Defence System (SHORAD) and is in service with the Royal Artillery.
Starstreak	United Kingdom	Air-defence Surface-to-air Missile System	145 84		Starstreak LML: Is fired from a Lightweight Multiple Launcher (LML) which holds three missiles ready for firing and can be used as either a stationary launch unit or mounted on a light vehicle such as the Land Rover Wolf. Starstreak SP HVM: Mounted on the Alvis Stormer AFV 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.

Engineering and logistic vehicles

Engineering vehicles

Name	Origin	Type	Number[53]	Photo	Notes
Engineering vehicles
CRARRV	United Kingdom	Armoured Repair and Recovery Vehicle	75		The Challenger Armoured Repair and Recovery Vehicle (CRARRV) is a highly evolved armoured vehicle designed to recover and repair damaged tanks on the battlefield.[74]
FV434	United Kingdom	Armoured Repair Vehicle			FV434 is the Armoured Repair Vehicle variant of the British Army's FV430 series of armoured fighting vehicles. Introduced in the 1960s and is operated by the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME). Soon to be phased out.
FV512 Warrior	United Kingdom	Armoured Repair Vehicle			Variant of Warrior Fighting Vehicle. Equipped with a winch for recovery of other armoured and soft skinned vehicles of a similar and lesser weight.
FV106 Samson	United Kingdom	Armoured Recovery Vehicle			Armoured Recovery Vehicle variant of the CVR(T) range of combat vehicles. Capable of recovering up to 12 tonnes of vehicle.
FV513 Warrior	United Kingdom	Armoured Recovery Vehicle			Variant of Warrior Fighting Vehicle. Equipped with a winch for recovery of other armoured and soft skinned vehicles of a similar and lesser weight. Also fitted with a 6.5 tonne crane to aid in the quick repair of recovered equipment.
TITAN	United Kingdom	Armoured Vehicle Launched Bridge	33		Titan is a new armoured engineer vehicle designed to enable troops and vehicles to cross gaps of up to 60 metres by laying a selection of close support bridges. Along with Trojan it gives a common heavy armour fleet based on the Challenger 2 chassis.[75]
Trojan	United Kingdom	Minefield Breaching Vehicle	33		Trojan is an armoured engineer vehicle designed to open routes through complex battlefield obstacles and clear a path through minefields.[76] Trojan also utilizes the Python Minefield Breaching System.
Terrier	United Kingdom	Combat Engineering Vehicle	60		Terrier is a new replacement for the Combat Engineering Tractor, acquired in 2013. It removes obstacles, digs earthworks and aids in ditch crossing. Compared to the CET, it features faster speeds, heavier armour and can be remotely controlled from far distances.
Shielder minelaying system	United Kingdom	Anti-tank System	29		The Shielder Anti-Tank System gives commanders the facility to create anti-tank barriers quickly and effectively.
Buffalo	United Kingdom	Mine protected Clearance Vehicle	18		The Buffalo mine protected vehicle is a wheeled armored vehicle built by Force Protection Inc. It was designed based on the successful South African Casspir mine-protected vehicle.[77]
Alvis Unipower	United Kingdom	Tank Bridge Transporter			The TBT has the same cross-country performance as a tank even when fully loaded. It can carry 1 × No 10 Bridge or 2 × No 12 Bridges. It can drop off and load bridges independently, but it cannot recover them.
M3 Amphibious Bridge	Germany	Amphibious Bridging Vehicle			The M3 Amphibious Rig can be driven into a river and used as a ferry or, when a number are joined together from bank to bank, as a bridge, capable of taking vehicles as heavy as the Challenger 2.

Logistic vehicles

The British Army operates a large number of logistics vehicles, including; 9,288 logistics/cargo vehicles, 705 bulk fuel transporters, 157 equipment transporters as well as approximately 3,500 other vehicles.^[53] Additionally there were approximately 12,000 Land Rovers in service with the British Army world wide.^[78] Listed in the table below are the more common and publicly known types in service:

Name[79]	Type	Photo	Notes
Logistic vehicles
Oshkosh HET 1070F	Heavy Equipment Transporter (HET)		The Heavy Equipment Transporters are capable of carrying a 70-tonne Main Battle Tank.
Oshkosh Wheeled Tanker	Bulk Fuel and Water Transportation Vehicle		It forms most of the British Army’s bulk fuel and water transportation and can be fitted with enhanced blast-proof armour for driver protection.[80]
Leyland DROPS	Logistic/Cargo Vehicle		Is a Medium Mobility Load Carrier (MMLC) using a standard pallet and rack system and form the logistic backbone of the British Army.
Foden DROPS	Logistic/Cargo Vehicle		The Improved Medium Mobility Load Carrier (IMMLC) is used primarily as an ammunition carrier in support of AS90 155mm self-propelled guns.
MAN Support Vehicle	Logistic/Cargo Vehicle		The MAN family of support vehicles are gradually replacing (over ten years) all 4-tonne, 8-tonne and 14-tonne cargo vehicles. They have good mobility and the ability to be fitted with armour. The cab can be fitted with a 7.62 General Purpose Machine Gun.[81] See MAN SX.
All-Terrain Mobility Platform	Lightweight Logistic/Cargo Vehicle		(ATMP)
Land Rover	Multipurpose Utility Vehicle		Numerous variants of the Land Rover are used such as the Land Rover Wolf Truck Utility Light and Medium (Higher Specification), the Land Rover Defender Truck Utility Light and Medium and a version fitted as a Battlefield Ambulance, using the Land Rover Defender 127" chassis.[82]
Pinzgauer 716M	High Mobility All-Terrain Vehicle		The Pinzgauer 716M is a four-wheel–drive transporter used by the Royal Artillery to tow the L118 Light gun and the Rapier missile system. It is also used as a small logistics vehicle; the armoured version is known as the Vector.
Springer	All-Terrain Vehicle		Designed as a light-role load carriage platform, the Springer is based on the US-made Tomcar. The 4×2 vehicle can self-load a 1t pallet. Each vehicle is equipped with an 8,000 lb (3,600 kg) self-recovery winch and sand ladders, which act as loading ramps for a cargo pallet.[83]
Motorcycles	Liaison		Harley Davidson MT350E and Honda R250 motorcycles are used by dispatch riders and for a variety of liaison and traffic control tasks.
Grizzly 450 Quad Bikes	Light Transport		Yamaha Grizzly 450s[84] quad bikes are used for light transport for things such as mortars, ammunition and general supplies.[85]

Other vehicles

Watercraft

Name	Number	Photo	Notes
Watercraft
Mk 6 Assault Boat			The Mk 6 Assault Boat is a glass reinforced plastic boat, operated by the Royal Engineers which can be carried by four men. It is designed to carry up to 10 fully equipped troops or 1,043 kg of stores, it also makes a useful light ferry when fitted with an outboard motor.[86]
Rigid Raider			The Rigid Raider is a series of rigid hulled raiding craft, operated mainly by the Royal Engineers and Royal Marines, but also by the Royal Logistic Corps. The Mk 3 craft is capable of 30 knots and can be beached during assaults. It is also used in support of bridging operations.
Combat Support Boat			The Combat Support Boat (CSB) is a powerful, versatile craft designed to support both bridging and amphibious operations. Powered by water jet propulsion it has a shallow draught. It is generally operated by the Royal Engineers as a general-purpose boat in support of diving operations, ship-to-shore re-supply and inland riverine patrols.[87]
Ramped Craft Logistic	4		Ramped Craft Logistic (RCL) is operated by the Royal Logistic Corps for amphibious operations and is designed to deliver men and material onto beaches.[88]
Mk 4 Army Workboat	4		Army Workboats (WB41 Storm, WB42 Diablo, WB43 Mistral, WB44 Sirocco) are operated by the Royal Logistic Corps as small tugs and general purpose workboats in support of amphibious operations.
MEXEFLOTE			Mexeflote rafts are operated by the Royal Logistic Corps for amphibious operations and are designed to deliver vehicles and material between ship and shore.

Aircraft

Name	Type	Number	Photo	Notes
Aircraft
B-N Islander B-N Defender	Surveillance aircraft	16		The Britten-Norman Islander and Defender are light aircraft used for airborne reconnaissance and command. They have a range of 380 nautical miles and can carry two crew and six passengers. Also has a limited use in transporting personnel.[89]
Westland Apache	Attack helicopter	66		The Westland Apache was designed to hunt and destroy tanks and can operate in all weathers, day or night. It carries a mix of weapons including rockets, Hellfire missiles and a 30-mm chain gun.
Westland Lynx	Battlefield helicopter	72		The Westland Lynx is a battlefield utility helicopter although it has been used for both anti–tank and reconnaissance operations. The addition of door gunners has allowed Lynx to operate in the very close air support role. The AH7 aircraft are going to be replaced by 34 Lynx Wildcat.
Westland Wildcat	Battlefield helicopter	5		34 aircraft have been ordered. Currently used for training. The Wildcat will enter operational service in 2014.
Bell 212 HP	Battlefield helicopter	8		Used in the jungle areas of Belize and Brunei.
Eurocopter Dauphin	Special forces helicopter	5		The Eurocopter Dauphin is used in support of United Kingdom Special Forces. 8 Flight Army Air Corps attached to SAS.[90]
Westland Gazelle	Reconnaissance helicopter	23		The Westland Gazelle is a small single-engined helicopter primarily used for observation and reconnaissance.[91] It is an older aircraft type with limited capability and is not deployed on combat roles. Under current plans the out of service date for the Gazelle is 2012.[92] Capability to be replaced by Watchkeeper UAV.
Watchkeeper WK450	ISTAR UAV	54		The Watchkeeper WK450 is an advanced ISTAR UAV with twin payloads that can operate in all weathers and can take off and land automatically.[93] WK450 has a maximum payload capacity of 150 kilogrammes. Which will include day and night sensors, a flir, a zoom television camera, a laser range finder and target designator and a combined synthetic aperture radar and ground moving target indicator.[94] Entered service in 2011 and currently on operational trials with the Royal Artillery.
Desert Hawk	Miniature UAV			Desert Hawk is a Mini Unmanned Air Vehicle (MUAV). It Provides day and night coverage and has an extremely good record proven by supporting both 16 Air Assault Brigade and 3 Commando Brigade in Afghanistan. Also used by the 32nd Regiment Royal Artillery as a tactical surveillance system.
Black Hornet Nano	Micro air vehicle	160		The Black Hornet Nano unmanned aerial vehicle(UAV) measures around 10 cm x 2.5 cm and provides troops on the ground with local situational awareness.[95]

Future equipment

Future Lynx Wildcat

The Lynx Wildcat will be a fleet of 62 new light helicopters for the Army and Royal Navy from 2014 and 2015 respectively.^{[needs update]} The Army variant of the Lynx Wildcat will be used for reconnaissance, command and control, transportation of troops and matériel and the provision of force protection. With new Rolls-Royce CTS800-4N engines it will be significantly more powerful than the current Lynx, enabling it to operate in extreme hot conditions and high altitudes.^[96]

Future Integrated Soldier Technology

The Future Integrated Soldier Technology is a suite of equipment capable of enhancing an infantryman's effectiveness as part of the Future Soldier programme.^[97]

Future Rapid Effect System

The Future Rapid Effect System is a planned family of medium-weight armoured vehicles intended to replace the Saxon, FV432 and CVR(T) series of vehicles.^[98]

Support vehicle

A new unarmoured Support vehicle, is currently being introduced into service. There will be 6,928 cargo vehicles including unit support tankers, 288 recovery vehicles and 69 recovery trailers with the deployment planned for 2014.^{[82][needs update]}

Modular Assault Rifle System

UK MOD has a requirement to acquire a new Modular Assault Rifle System (MARS) for deployment with certain military units from 2014.^[99]

See also

• British Army
• Future of the British Army (Army 2020)

References

External links

• British Army equipment - official Ministry of Defence (United Kingdom) website.
• Equipment on the British Army Rumour Service
• Defence Suppliers Directory - defence industry database.
• British Army regiments and weapons
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