London, UK: General Dynamics Land Systems–UK (GDLS-UK), in collaboration with Lockheed Martin’s Ampthill facility in Bedfordshire, UK, unveiled the next-generation AJAX Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) at DSEI 2025. This launch marks a major milestone in British armoured capability and a significant step forward in European defence cooperation.

The AJAX IFV complements the proven Ajax family of vehicles already in service with the British Army, offering enhanced lethality, survivability, and digital integration. Designed to meet the demands of modern multi-domain operations, AJAX IFV supports interoperability, logistical efficiency, and operational readiness across NATO and EU defence frameworks.

Its proven adaptable electronic architecture enables seamless integration with allied forces, while mission-specific configurations ensure relevance across a range of operational environments. AJAX IFV advances the UK’s sovereign capability with a focus on modularity, exportability, and strategic alignment with NATO-first priorities.

AJAX IFV features a cutting-edge uncrewed turret developed by Lockheed Martin at its UK turret centre of excellence in Bedfordshire. This sovereign capability delivers enhanced lethality, digital integration, and modularity, and benefits from prior investment in both Ajax and the Warrior Capability Sustainment Programme (WCSP).

“AJAX IFV represents the convergence of sovereign innovation, strategic foresight, and industrial strength. It’s not just a platform—it’s a product of the UK’s Defence Industrial Strategy and a direct response to the Strategic Defence Review’s call for adaptable, export-ready capability. Designed, built and supported in Britain, AJAX IFV will contribute to the British Army’s 10x lethality through advanced digital integration and modularity, enabling NATO-first operations with unmatched interoperability.

With deep roots in South Wales, this programme is more than defence—it’s an engine for growth. It supports thousands of high value jobs, continues to revitalise UK and regional industry, and strengthens the UK’s position as a trusted partner in global security. AJAX IFV is the embodiment of what modern sovereign capability looks like: strategic, scalable, and ready for the battlefield of tomorrow,” said Scott Milne, Vice President & General Manager at GDLS-UK.

In an era where joint operations and multinational battlegroups are the norm, the benefits of a shared platform and belonging to the same user group are profound. Commonality simplifies training, maintenance, and supply chains—enabling faster deployment and more cohesive operations. These advantages align with the EU’s Common Procurement initiatives and NATO’s push for greater force integration.

Export-Ready and Globally Relevant

GDLS-UK is actively engaging with delegations from Eastern Europe and the Middle East to explore export opportunities, supported by the UK Government’s Defence Industrial Strategy. With over £10 billion in addressable export markets, AJAX IFV is poised to become a flagship UK defence export, reinforcing national prosperity and industrial resilience.

Industrial Strength and Sovereign Capability

Rooted in South Wales, the AJAX programme supports over 4,100 UK jobs and a robust supply chain of 230 suppliers, including 20% SMEs. GDLS-UK’s £120 million investment in sovereign manufacturing highlights its role in regional regeneration and industrial strength.

Lockheed Martin’s Ampthill facility, the UK’s premier turret design and manufacturing centre, plays a critical role in delivering this capability—demonstrating the strength of UK-based defence innovation.

Paul Livingston CBE, Chief Executive Lockheed Martin UK & NATO said: “Today’s unveiling is a powerful demonstration of how UK industry is working together to innovate and deliver the capabilities our Army needs for the future fight. Survivability, lethality, adaptability, and exportability are not abstract ideals; they are core requirements for our soldiers, and they are built into the very design of this system.”