In pictures: Take a closer look at the Army's Ajax armoured fighting vehicle
The British Army has finally got its hands on the updated version of the new Ajax armoured fighting vehicle.
After a number of challenges and considerable scrutiny, the Household Cavalry has begun testing it out on Salisbury Plain.
Forces News went along to see the action and got a guided tour from Lieutenant James Bird, a troop commander from The Blues and Royals, one of the two regiments in the Household Cavalry.
Firstly, Lt Bird explains how because it is a tracked vehicle it is capable of travelling across any terrain "with ease and pace" - with the running gear being protected by armoured side plates.
Perched on top of the Ajax is a camera system, used by the driver to identify threats on the battlefield.
Behind the camera is the turret, where the gunner's and commander's positions are located.
The gunner is responsible for operating the weapons and sighting systems, while the commander is responsible for the overall control of the vehicle.
The primary sight on the Ajax is described as being an "independent, hunter-killer sight" that can be operated by either the gunner or the commander.
There is also a laser warning system that detects incoming threats and allows personnel to react accordingly, deploying smoke grenades if needed.
The defensive capabilities don't stop there, with Ajax being fitted with an acoustic warning system to identify the sound of helicopters, heavy guns and small arms fire around the vehicle to alert the crew of any potential threats.
Ajax also has an offensive capability, .having a 40mm stabilised weapon system and chain gun, allowing personnel to operate and fire at distances up to 3km away while on the move.
"I've been in the Household Cavalry Regiment since March and since then I've had the absolute privilege of commanding Ajax," Lt Bird said.
"I can truly say it is an excellent bit of kit."
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