New digital protection for Explosive Ordnance Disposal personnel

According to the Ministry of Defence (MoD), military specialists disposing of suspected bombs in the UK are being equipped with next-generation digital protection against remotely triggered devices.

The technology will work by searching the airwaves for remote control signals that could be attempting to detonate an explosive device. Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) personnel will then be able to block the signals using a new digital technique.

According to the MoD press release, the new £41 million contract with Leonardo, a company that develops multi-domain capabilities in the aerospace, defence and security sector, is expected to support 100 jobs and create 10 more. Around half of the contract will be delivered by small and medium-sized enterprises in the UK.

The British Army’s 11 EOD team, Search Regiment of the Royal Logistic Corps and the Royal Naval Fleet Diving Squadron will receive vehicle-mounted and portable systems.

CEO of Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), part of MoD, Sir Simon Bollom said: "This British Army regiment carries out high risk duties often in direct protection of the public and it is essential that we provide them with the tools needed to carry out their job safely and effectively. Crucially the system is open architecture so it can be updated across its lifetime to ensure advancements in hostile technology can be countered."

The first deliveries of the new equipment are expected in Autumn 2024, with the expectation that from 2025, the technology will be deployed across further Defence specialist units responsible for explosive device and munitions disposal.

Major General Robin Anderton-Brown, UKStratCom Director Capability, said: "This capability shows the MOD exploiting the best available technology from our innovative SMEs here in the UK. In a system designed for the information age, the procurement approach and open architecture will allow us to upgrade, at pace, to respond to new threats and technology. This cutting edge, modular capability will ensure our personnel are best able to deal with the threats they face, now and into the future."

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