New £45m piece of kit will protect British troops by stopping IEDs being detonated

British troops around the world will benefit from a piece of kit that will stop the detonation of remote and radio-controlled IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices).

The cutting-edge equipment will intercept remote control signals that may be attempting to blow up an explosive device.

Soldiers on operations are set to receive the new equipment in 2026. It will be lightweight enough for a soldier to carry and can also be mounted on vehicles.

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The system is built with further innovation in mind and could potentially be developed to be able to counter remotely piloted air systems, as well as IEDs.

Defence Procurement Minister Alex Chalk said: "Our Armed Forces dedicate their lives to protecting and securing our nation.

"As the technology used by our adversaries to threaten our people and operations evolves, we are innovating to stay ahead of the challenge.

"This project brings together pioneering UK technology and industry to create a world-leading protection system for our Armed Forces," he added.

The £45m contract to develop the defence system has been awarded to four companies, collectively known as Team Protect.

The defence system, with the working title Project CRENIC, will be a collaboration between PA Consulting, Leonardo, Leidos Innovations UK, and Marshall Land Systems.

Major General Robin Anderton-Brown, Director Capability Strategic Command, said: "Incorporating cutting-edge technology and adopting an agile acquisition approach, CRENIC will deliver a world-leading capability to protect our forces deployed on global operations."

Over the next five years, the project will create more than 50 jobs around the UK.