DSEI 2025 showed a new British BMP — Ajax with a Lockheed Martin turret and a 40 mm cannon

Not just an upgrade — an elongated case and more space

At DSEI 2025 in London, General Dynamics Land Systems–UK, together with Lockheed Martin, presented a new version of the Ajax infantry fighting vehicle. It's not just cosmetics — the car has received an elongated body: 30 centimeters longer than the basic Ares model. This means more internal space, more convenient for the crew and paratroopers.

The vehicle is designed for three crew members and eight fighters. Now it will be easier for soldiers to move inside, and the equipment will be placed without compromising comfort.

A turret without a crew — and a cannon that hits further

The main innovation is a new uninhabited tower, developed in the UK by Lockheed Martin. It is completely enclosed, controlled remotely from inside the car. The crew keeps their heads down, doesn't take any risks, but at the same time sees everything through cameras and thermal imagers.

The turret is equipped with a 40 mm CTA (Cased Telescoped Armament) cannon, which has already been tested in other army projects. It is more powerful than the old 30mm and allows you to fire on heavy equipment, fortified positions and even light armored cars.

What does the 40mm CTA do and why do we need a missile bay?

40mm shells are a serious increase in firepower. They penetrate more armor, deal more damage to infantry, and can be used in urban combat. The cannon is compatible with smart ammo, which increases accuracy.

Another find is a separate compartment for anti—tank guided missiles. Now the infantry fighting vehicle can not only fire a cannon, but also launch missiles at enemy tanks without leaving cover.

Tracks, protection, and why it's important for the Army

The vehicle is equipped with composite rubber tracks from the Canadian Soucy Defense. They are quieter, wear out more slowly and do not damage roads — an important advantage when moving around the city or in the rear.

An active protection system has also been announced, which means Ajax will be able to repel ATGM and grenade attacks. All this makes the car not just a transport, but a full-fledged combat unit.

Sources

1. TopWar — Track or wheel: the eternal dilemma
2. TopWar — Which track is better?
3. MySeldon — News digest on tracked systems
4. Army Guide — Comparative review of track technologies
5. Army Guide — Track durability and maintenance analysis
6. Focus.ua — South Korea unveils upgraded K9A2 SP howitzer for British Army