The UK government has announced an urgent recall of 120,000 enhanced combat body armour (ECBA) plates used by the British military after testing uncovered microscopic cracks in the ageing equipment.
The recall follows concerns that the previous government delayed replacements for cost-saving measures, leaving troops at risk.
Defective Body Armour Raises Troop Safety Concerns
The faulty body armour, originally set to be replaced in 2023, was left in service for an additional four years, a decision that has sparked criticism from opposition leaders. Defence Minister Luke Pollard has ordered an immediate recall and expedited replacement process, aiming to complete the swap-out years ahead of schedule.
Labour officials have accused the previous Conservative government of neglecting military safety, drawing parallels to the PPE shortages faced by NHS workers during the Covid-19 pandemic. They argue that financial savings came at the expense of personnel protection, leaving armed forces vulnerable in low-threat environments.
What the Recall Means for the British Military
The ECBA plates, first introduced over three decades ago, are still widely used by the Royal Navy, marines, and army personnel in training and non-frontline roles. Although no longer standard for combat troops, these lightweight plates are crucial for certain operations, particularly for personnel working near water, where heavier flak jackets pose drowning risks.
Defence officials estimate that one in ten ECBA plates may be defective. However, they hope to mitigate additional costs by testing recalled plates and returning safe units back into service.
Government Promises Enhanced Defence Spending
While Labour has pledged to increase UK defence spending to 2.5% of GDP, the government has yet to provide a timeline for reaching that target. Prime Minister Keir Starmer reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening national security, with an independent defence review expected to be released before Easter.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) confirmed that ECBA “has been suspended in all but unavoidable circumstances” following safety concerns. A spokesperson emphasized that the government “will not accept compromises when it comes to the safety of our people.”
With the recall now underway, defence officials are working to ensure that British troops receive the protection they deserve without unnecessary delays or budget constraints.
