The British Army has subjected Ajax tanks to extensive tests in Lapland, Sweden, at temperatures as low as minus 30 degrees Celsius. The aim was to show that the Ajax vehicles are capable of operating and firing accurately even in extreme weather conditions – in this case cold.
Major Robert Gardner, part of the test team, said: “During the tests, crews initially did not fire, and then engaged stationary targets from stationary positions. Finally, they fired at moving targets and then from moving vehicles. All in all, around 120 rounds were fired.”
For the Ajax gunners, the tests were the first opportunity to gain practical experience in the vehicle. One of the gunners, Lance Corporal Alex Macdonald, was pleased with the results: “The weapon systems worked better than we expected. There were a few teething problems, which we expected with a new vehicle, but on the whole the experience was positive and there was some really valuable feedback.” Addressing the low temperatures, he added: “The heating in the vehicles kept us warm when we started work.” Driver Reuben Burt, who has been driving the Ajax for five months, has also gained some knowledge: “We’ve learned that the rubber tracks aren’t good on snow as they tend to slip and drift, but it’s about testing the vehicles to see how they cope and pushing the vehicle to its limits.” Compared to the Warrior infantry fighting vehicle, the Ajax’s predecessor, the vehicle feels more modern, Burt also said.
