Ajax vehicles and carbon monoxide risks: Solicitor’s perspective on an avoidable harm

Recent media coverage concerning The Army’s Ajax armoured vehicles has raised serious concerns about the safety of serving personnel, following reports that soldiers may have been exposed to carbon monoxide and other toxic fumes while using the vehicles.

As a solicitor who has represented military personnel affected by carbon monoxide poisoning, these reports are very concerning. Carbon monoxide is often described as the silent killer for good reason. It's colourless, odourless and can cause serious injury before those exposed are even aware that anything is wrong.

The life-changing impact of carbon monoxide poisoning

I've previously acted for two serving personnel who sustained carbon monoxide poisoning during military training after being wrongly advised that a stove could safely be used inside a tent. Both men survived the incident, but the consequences were devastating and permanent.

In the months following their exposure, they experienced ongoing symptoms including chronic fatigue, cognitive impairment, memory problems, reduced concentration and altered mood. Despite rehabilitation and specialist treatment, neither was able to return to full duties. Both were medically discharged from the careers they loved.

In those cases, the Ministry of Defence admitted breach of duty. I was able to secure significant settlements which provided financial security and access to ongoing support. However, no amount of compensation can undo the loss of health, identity and vocation that can follow exposure to carbon monoxide.

Why the Ajax reports matter

Against that background, reports that personnel operating Ajax vehicles may have been exposed to carbon monoxide fumes are particularly alarming. Service men and women are entitled to expect that the equipment they're asked to use has been properly designed, tested and risk-assessed, and that any identified hazards have been addressed promptly and transparently.

Carbon monoxide exposure doesn't simply result in short‑term illness. It can lead to hypoxic brain injury, respiratory problems and long‑term neurological symptoms that affect every aspect of daily life. 

For serving personnel, this can mean medical downgrading or discharge, loss of career progression and profound disruption to family life and future plans.

The importance of learning lessons

When incidents involving carbon monoxide occur, a consistent theme often emerges: the harm was foreseeable and preventable. Robust safety procedures, clear guidance, adequate monitoring and proper maintenance are not optional extras, they are fundamental safeguards.

Where concerns arise around military equipment or working practices, it's essential that they are taken seriously, investigated rigorously and addressed without delay. Doing so isn't about attributing blame; it's about protecting those who serve and preventing others from suffering avoidable harm.

Support for affected personnel

Any current or former service personnel experiencing symptoms they believe may be linked to carbon monoxide exposure should seek medical advice as soon as possible. Legal advice may also be appropriate, particularly where exposure has affected health, careers or long‑term earning capacity.

At Irwin Mitchell, we have extensive experience of supporting members of the Armed Forces who have suffered injury due to negligence. We understand the unique nature of military service and the profound impact that injury can have on identity, livelihood and wellbeing.

The recent reporting around Ajax vehicles should act as a reminder of the very real dangers posed by carbon monoxide, and of the lasting consequences when those dangers are not adequately controlled.