British soldiers are learning how to control attacking drones from a first—person perspective - like in esports, only with explosives

FPV Drone course at the Bramley Training Ground

In July, a three-week intensive training on a new type of combat drones was held at the Bramley training ground in Hampshire. For the first time, soldiers of the British army began to massively master FPV drones - the ones that fly with a first—person view, as in races for cyber pilots. Only here it's not a sport, but combat training. The goal is to learn how to use small, fast, and deadly drones to target enemy positions.

The course took place from July 7 to July 25 and became part of a large-scale re-equipment of the army to meet the realities of modern warfare.

One—sided attack - the drone crashes into the target and explodes

The tactic is called OWA — One-Way Attack. A drone with a small explosive charge is launched, the pilot sees everything through the camera in real time and directs it directly at the target — be it a bunker, equipment or a cluster of fighters. After being hit, there is an explosion. The drone is destroyed, but the task is completed.

This is a cheap, accurate and flexible way to hit targets, especially in urban environments or when storming fortified positions.

Not just racing — simulations, radio interference and exploration

The training was tough: lectures, hours on simulators, and then field exercises. The soldiers learned not only how to fly, but also how to operate in electronic warfare: when the enemy jammed the signal, they lost control and the drone became a target.

The key point is integration with intelligence. For example, first they launch a regular drone for reconnaissance, find a target, and then the FPV pilot goes on the attack. This is not chaos, but well-coordinated work.

The army's first platoon of drones from parachutists

The program was led by a special platoon of unmanned aerial vehicles from the 2nd battalion of the Parachute Regiment. This is the first unit of its kind in the British army, created specifically for new challenges. Parachutists are the elite, and the fact that they are the ones who take on the development of drone tactics speaks to the seriousness of the approach.

Now they're not just skydiving—they're controlling death from a remote control.

Sources

1. Invoen.ru — overview of British unmanned platforms & army training
2. Vz.ru — RAF trials of RF-directed-energy anti-drone weapons
3. Vesti.ru — evolution of FPV-drone tactics in UK service
4. AIF.ru — UK plan to supply 100 000 drones to Ukraine in 2025
5. RBC.ru — increased production volumes & operator training
6. Overclockers.ru — British army tests swarming-robot C-UAS system
7. Drone Wars UK — 2025 national drone programmes overview
8. Army Recognition — “Hornets Nest” trial: FPV drones launched from Chinook

The British Army has successfully integrated the Javelin with the Boxer armored vehicle: a new stage in anti-tank defense

The British Army has announced the successful completion of tests to integrate the Javelin anti-tank missile system with the Boxer armored vehicle. This achievement marked an important step towards enabling British troops to launch anti-tank missiles from under their armor, significantly enhancing their combat capabilities.

Successful trials and their significance

Earlier this year, the British Army successfully conducted tests by integrating the Javelin system with the Boxer machine. This achievement reportedly opens up new perspectives for British troops by providing them with powerful weapons that can be used from under their armor. This integration makes it possible to significantly increase the mobility and security of troops, while ensuring high efficiency in anti-tank operations.

Advantages of the new system

Javelin integration with Boxer brings several key advantages. Firstly, it increases the survival rate of the crew, as missiles can be launched from under the armor, reducing the risk of damage. Secondly, it increases operational flexibility, allowing troops to respond quickly to threats without leaving cover. Finally, it improves the accuracy and effectiveness of strikes, as the Javelin system is known for its high accuracy and power.

Prospects and further development

The successful integration of Javelin with Boxer opens up broad prospects for the further development of the British Army's anti-tank systems. In the future, we can expect improvements in fire control, increased range and accuracy, as well as integration with other weapons systems. This will allow British troops to remain at the forefront of technology and effectively counter current and future threats.

Impact on the combat capabilities of the British Army

The new system significantly enhances the combat capabilities of the British army, making it more mobile, secure and efficient. The ability to launch anti-tank missiles from under armor provides troops with a strategic advantage, allowing them to act more aggressively and confidently on the battlefield. This is especially important in the context of modern conflicts, where flexibility and promptness play a key role.

The British Army will receive the latest Jackal 3 vehicles from the first batch

The British Army is completing the delivery of the first batch of Jackal 3 light reconnaissance vehicles. In the near future, troops will receive the last two vehicles, which will be an important step in the modernization program for ground equipment.

Despite the relatively small scale of the purchase, the delivery of Jackal 3 is perceived as a significant step in updating the fleet of mobile reconnaissance and strike platforms. These high-speed vehicles are designed to operate in difficult conditions, including operations in desert and rough terrain, and are actively used by special forces and intelligence units.

The Jackal 3 model features improved protection, increased cross-country capability, and the ability to install various weapons, including heavy machine guns and automatic grenade launchers. The vehicle retains high mobility and is capable of quickly transferring to perform reconnaissance, convoy escort, or pinpoint strikes.

Although the program so far covers a limited number of pieces of equipment, it demonstrates the course of the British armed forces to strengthen rapid reaction capabilities and increase the combat effectiveness of light mobile units.

British Apaches will receive drone cover: the army is creating an autonomous "assistant" for aerial combat

The British Army is preparing a major upgrade for its Apache AH-64E attack helicopters — and this is not about new weapons, but about a real "twin in the sky." As part of the new initiative, a ground—based autonomous collaborative platform (LACP) is being developed - in fact, a drone that will fly with the Apaches and perform the most dangerous tasks instead of them.

This drone is not just a radio—controlled toy. It will operate in a highly autonomous mode, meaning it will not require constant operator intervention. He can be "sent forward" with one command: "Go, look, find targets, cover for me" — and then he will decide for himself how to maneuver, where to hide and when to transfer the data to the pilot. As they say in the army: this is a "command-controlled, not controlled" device — like a war dog, not like a toy car on a remote control.

What can he do? Almost everything you need on the battlefield:  

— Reconnaissance — it will fly into an area where it is too dangerous for a helicopter;  

— Target designation — highlights the target for missiles;  

— Strike — if equipped with a weapon;  

— Suppress air defenses — distract or disable enemy radars;  

— And work with Launched Effects systems — in other words, launch even smaller drones, like matryoshka dolls.

The idea is simple: the Apache pilot remains relatively safe, while his "unmanned partner" goes ahead, takes risks and transmits information in real time. This not only increases the chances of survival, but also makes the strikes more accurate and faster.

LACP is still under development, but one thing is clear: the future belongs to the human + drone teams. And British helicopter pilots are already preparing to work in such a duo.

The first British Boxer has arrived: the army has received a new combat vehicle assembled directly in the UK

 The British Army officially received the first Boxer armored vehicle, which was completely manufactured in the UK itself. Previously, these machines were assembled in Germany, but now production has been moved to the Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL) plant in Telford — and this is a major breakthrough. Why? Because this is not just a new technique, but part of one of the largest modernization programs of the army in recent years.  

Now the Boxer is already in Bovington, where the crews are being trained. Now it will be used as a training platform: soldiers will learn how to operate, maintain and understand how this powerful eight-wheeled vehicle works. And, by the way, it is 8x8 — that is, all eight wheels are driving, which gives excellent cross-country ability on any off-road.  

Boxer is not just an armored personnel carrier. It is modular: today it is infantry, tomorrow it is a command post or medical evacuation. The main thing is that it will become the basis of a new, more mobile and secure army. So it's not just the supply of equipment. This is the beginning of a new era for the British ground forces.

The British army has tested a "smart swarm": a network of interceptor drones against attacking drones

The British Army has tested a revolutionary drone-to-drone anti-drone system. The new system, called Sentinel, is a veritable swarm of networked interceptor drones and reconnaissance sensors capable of independently locating, tracking and destroying enemy drones.

These tests were conducted as part of the secret Vanaheim project, which aims to find and implement advanced technologies to counter drones, the number one threat on the modern battlefield, as quickly as possible. The idea is simple, but ingenious: instead of relying solely on ground-based radars and radio interference, which often "go blind" behind hills, buildings or trees, Sentinel uses a network of flying sensors that take to the air themselves and see the situation from above.

The system was developed by the German startup Alpine Eagle. According to them, Sentinel solves the main problem of ground—based air defense systems - the inability to detect a target that flies out of line of sight. The "flying swarm" easily bypasses these obstacles. Moreover, the system itself is much less vulnerable to counterattacks: if a ground station can be easily disabled, then attacking an entire distributed network of drones is much more difficult.

Sentinel is suitable both for protecting stationary objects (for example, bases or camps) and for escorting military columns on the move, creating a "cloud shield" of small hunting drones over them. If the tests are successful, it could become the new standard in the war on drones.

Britain is testing kamikaze drones: German startup Alpine Eagle creates "suicides" to destroy UAVs

 

The British army is looking for a way to effectively deal with kamikaze drones, and is now starting to use the same tactics itself. The British Ministry of Defense has launched tests with a new type of drones that not only detect enemy UAVs, but attack them directly with full dedication.

The German startup Alpine Eagle, founded in 2023, became a partner in the project. Despite its young age, the company has already developed a drone capable of intercepting enemy drones in the air — literally sacrificing itself by crashing into a target and destroying it on impact. It's like an "aerial samurai": it takes off, finds an enemy, and both fall.

Such drones are particularly effective against small and cheap UAVs, which are increasingly being used in attacks both in Ukraine and the Middle East. Traditional air defense systems (missiles, cannons) are ineffective against them — they are too expensive. But a kamikaze drone can be a cheap, fast and accurate solution.

Testing is still underway, but it is already clear that the future of drone defense is not only in electronic interference or lasers, but also in aerial duels where machines fight each other. And Britain clearly does not want to be left behind.

The UK has reached an important stage in the Challenger 3 tank program

The British Ministry of Defense has announced that it has reached a key production milestone as part of the Challenger 3 main battle tank modernization program. Four prototypes of the new tank have already been built, and four more are under assembly. This event highlights the progress in efforts to strengthen the country's ground forces and provide them with modern weapons.

The Challenger 3 program aims to replace the outdated Challenger 2 tanks that have been in service with the British Army since the 1990s. The new tank has received a number of improvements, including modern fire control systems, reinforced armor, a more powerful engine and the integration of advanced digital technologies. These changes make the Challenger 3 significantly more efficient and competitive on the modern battlefield.

The creation of eight prototypes is an important step in the process of testing and preparing for mass production. The prototypes will be used for testing in various conditions to ensure their reliability, maneuverability and combat capability. The successful completion of these tests will allow the start of mass production of tanks for the British army.

The Challenger 3 will be one of the most advanced tanks in the world, capable of facing new threats, including anti-tank missiles and drones. Its implementation will allow the UK to maintain its leadership in the field of armored vehicles and strengthen NATO's defense capabilities.

In addition, the program is important for the British defense industry, as it creates jobs and promotes the development of high-tech production facilities in the country. It also demonstrates the UK's commitment to investing in its own military technology, especially in the face of growing geopolitical challenges.

The first production models of the Challenger 3 are expected to enter service with the British army in the coming years. This tank will become a key element of the mechanized units and will play an important role in ensuring the security of the country and its allies.

Reconstruction of the base in Gloucestershire modernizes the British army

 The £250 million renovation of the Ministry of Defence facility in Gloucestershire will play a "key role" in modernising the British army.

As part of the infrastructure program, storage facilities for army equipment are being built at the US Department of Defense base in Ashchurch, near Tewkesbury.

By 2027, the facility will have the capacity to store 4,000 vehicles, including tanks and Land Rovers, in a humidity-controlled environment to prevent deterioration and ensure they are ready for deployment.

Many of the vehicles, provided to Ukraine by the British Army, arrived via Gloucestershire.

The first combat delivery of the new Challenger 3 tank to the British Army is scheduled for 2027 due to delays in the supply chain

 

Challenger 3

The British Army expects the first combat delivery of the new Challenger 3 tank in 2027. However, due to delays in the supply chain that occurred during the implementation of the program, there is a possibility of postponing this deadline.

The Challenger 3 is the next generation of the British Army's main battle tanks and is designed to replace the aging Challenger 2 tanks. As part of the program, launched in 2021, 148 Challenger 2 tanks will be upgraded to the Challenger 3 level. The updated tanks will receive new turrets, 120 mm smoothbore guns, active Trophy protection systems and improved digital control systems.

Despite the supply problems that have arisen, the program continues to move forward. A successful Critical Design Review was conducted in early 2023, and prototypes were tested in Germany in April 2024.The prototypes are currently undergoing field testing, and the next phase of testing is scheduled for the second quarter of 2025.

Delays in deliveries may affect the tank's commissioning schedule, pushing it back to a later date. This, in turn, may affect the combat readiness of the British army and its ability to carry out tasks within the framework of NATO.The British Ministry of Defense and Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL), responsible for the modernization of the tanks, are making additional efforts to eliminate delays and ensure timely commissioning of the tank.

The British Army is purchasing training drones with a first-person view to prepare for modern warfare

 The Ministry of Defense has signed a contract worth 256,080 pounds with Viking Arms Ltd for the rapid delivery of a training fleet of drones with a first-person view (FPV).

The short-term purchase, which will last only 19 days from March 12 to March 31, 2025, is aimed at equipping and training British Army personnel in FPV strike skills, taking into account the lessons of the war in Ukraine.

The contract supports the Field Army's initiative to develop the basic capabilities of unmanned aerial vehicles with the FPV function, one of the "first 6" directives, identified by Director Rapstone as part of efforts to achieve the ambitious goal of the Chief of the General Staff to create "any/any network."

Secret military documents found on the street

 

Stacks of papers containing classified military information were found on one of the city streets.

They include the ranks of soldiers, email addresses, shift schedules, and information about the issue of weapons, as well as information that appears to be related to access to the weapons storage and intrusion detection system.The documents were discovered by a football fan on March 16 in the Scotswood area of Newcastle from a black trash bag and, according to information security consultant Gary Hibberd, posed a "significant" threat to the individuals named in them.

The Ministry of Defense said it was "urgently" investigating the matter and conducting an internal investigation.

Downing Street said it could not comment on "any details" while an army investigation was underway.

"But you can count on appropriate measures to be taken in response to any potential information leak," the representative said.

Apparently, the documents are related to the regiments and barracks of the British Army in the Catterick garrison.One of the documents was called "Keys to the arsenal and intrusion detection codes," and, as the BBC understands, it concerns access to the arsenal — a place where weapons and ammunition are stored — and an intrusion detection system. 

Other information was provided with a footnote with the words "official – confidential," which, according to government guidelines, in some cases may mean that the information could lead to a "threat to life" if disclosed.

The information contained in the dropped documents ranged from general medical recommendations to ingredient order sheets, as well as people's ID numbers and email addresses.

A police spokesman confirmed that police "have received a report that potentially confidential documents have been found on Railway Street in the Scotswood area of Newcastle.""The documents have now been submitted to the Ministry of Defense."

A Defense Ministry spokesman said: "We are urgently reviewing this matter, and it is the subject of an ongoing internal investigation."

Boeing completes delivery of 50 new AH-64E Apache helicopters to the British Army

AH-64E Apache

The American company Boeing has confirmed that it has completed the delivery of the last of the 50 new AH-64E Apache attack helicopters to the British Army. 

To mark this event, a ceremony was held at the company's facilities in Mesa, Arizona, with the participation of members of the British Army and the Defense Equipment and Support Agency (DE&S) of the British Ministry of Defense.

The UK invests 3.5 million pounds in the Warrior combat vehicle crew training system

 The British Ministry of Defense has signed a contract worth 3.5 million pounds with CAE (UK) Plc to develop a military training system (WTS) that will provide continuous training opportunities for crews of the British Army's Warrior armored fighting vehicles.                                    

 The contract, signed on February 27, 2025, is designed for one year with the possibility of extension for another three years, that is, it can be valid until 2029.

Warrior armored fighting vehicle

The British Army is strengthening its fleet: three more Apache AH-64E attack helicopters have been delivered

The British Army continues to modernize its air force, receiving three more Apache AH-64E attack helicopters. These new vehicles, the 45th, 46th, and 47th in the series, were transported from the United States to the United Kingdom, marking an important milestone on the way to full fleet readiness.

As part of the agreement with Boeing UK, the British Army plans to receive a total of 50 Apache AH-64E helicopters. These helicopters are among the most advanced in the world and will significantly enhance the combat capabilities of the British armed forces. The delivery of new machines is carried out in stages, which allows for a smooth transition to new equipment and minimizes risks.

The last three helicopters were delivered to the UK by the US Air Force, which underlines the close cooperation between the two countries in the field of defense. These vehicles have passed all the necessary checks and tests before shipment, which guarantees their high combat readiness and reliability.

Apache AH-64E helicopters represent a significant improvement over previous models. They are equipped with advanced weapons systems, improved sensors and modern control systems, which allows them to effectively perform a wide range of combat missions. These helicopters are capable of operating in any environment, be it day or night operations, which makes them indispensable in modern conflicts.

The delivery of new helicopters will significantly strengthen the combat capabilities of the British army. Apache AH-64E will allow the armed forces to more effectively carry out tasks of supporting ground troops, reconnaissance and precision strikes. This, in turn, will increase the overall combat capability and readiness of the army to carry out various missions.

The British Army continues to work on integrating new helicopters into its air force. In the coming years, it is planned to complete the delivery of all 50 vehicles and ensure their full combat readiness. This will allow the UK to maintain its leading position in the field of military aviation and ensure reliable protection of its interests in the international arena.

British Army Explores Integration of Unmanned "Mules" with Apache Helicopters

 The British Army is venturing into new technological territory by exploring the integration of unmanned "mules" with its new AH-64E Apache helicopters. This innovative initiative, presented by Lieutenant General David Eastman, Deputy Chief of the General Staff, at the recent International Conference on Armored Vehicles in London, aims to significantly enhance the operational efficiency and combat capabilities of the Apache fleet.

The concept revolves around combining manned and unmanned aerial vehicles, allowing the Apache helicopter to serve as a command and control hub for up to six unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This integration will enable the Apache to direct UAVs to perform various missions, ranging from reconnaissance and surveillance to targeted strikes, thereby expanding its operational reach and effectiveness.

"The integration of unmanned 'mules' with our Apache helicopters represents a significant leap forward in our aerial combat capabilities," said Lieutenant General Eastman. "By leveraging the strengths of both manned and unmanned systems, we can enhance the Apache's lethality, sensory capabilities, and protection, ensuring it remains a formidable asset in modern warfare."

The primary goal of this project is to increase the Apache's killing power, sensory capabilities, and protection. By controlling a swarm of UAVs, the Apache can gather more intelligence, engage multiple targets simultaneously, and operate in more complex and contested environments. This enhanced capability will allow the British Army to meet the evolving requirements of modern warfare, where technological superiority often determines the outcome of conflicts.

The initiative is part of a broader strategy to modernize the British Army's aerial assets and ensure they remain at the forefront of military technology. The integration of unmanned systems with manned platforms is seen as a critical step in achieving this goal, as it combines the strengths of both types of systems to create a more versatile and effective combat force.

"This project underscores our commitment to innovation and technological advancement," added Lieutenant General Eastman. "By embracing new technologies and integrating them into our existing platforms, we can ensure that our forces are well-equipped to face the challenges of the future."

The British Army's exploration of this concept is expected to have significant implications for the future of aerial warfare. As the integration of unmanned "mules" with Apache helicopters progresses, it will set a new standard for the combination of manned and unmanned systems, paving the way for similar initiatives in other military branches and nations.

In conclusion, the British Army's initiative to integrate unmanned "mules" with its Apache helicopters represents a bold step towards enhancing its aerial combat capabilities. By leveraging the strengths of both manned and unmanned systems, the British Army is poised to maintain its technological edge and ensure its readiness for the challenges of modern warfare.