British Army to Trial Composite Rubber Tracks on BLACKJAX, Paving Possible Upgrade Path for AJAX Fleet
London, November 18, 2025 – The British Army will conduct a trial of composite rubber tracks (CRTs) on its BLACKJAX technology demonstrator at the beginning of December, assessing the technology as a potential upgrade for the AJAX armoured fighting vehicle (AFV) fleet. Manufacturer General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS) is slated to deliver 589 AJAX vehicles across six variants, with the fleet expected to reach initial operating capability before the end of this year.
What the British Army Is Testing
CRTs are a modern alternative to traditional steel tracks for AFVs. Instead of segmented steel, they use a continuous rubber band with integrated treads, reinforced with steel cords and other high-strength materials, including carbon nanotubes. The current integration is limited to BLACKJAX, a technology demonstrator unveiled at the DSEI 2025 exhibition in London in September.
Key Advantages of CRTs
- Reduced noise and vibration, addressing issues historically associated with some tracked platforms such as AJAX.
- Improved mobility across varying terrain.
- Weight savings compared to steel, with potential fuel-efficiency benefits.
- Lower maintenance burden due to the single, continuous track design.
Industrial Implications and UK Policy
The CRTs for BLACKJAX are supplied by Soucy Defense, a company based in Quebec, Canada. There is no local CRT manufacturing in the UK. Should the British Army adopt CRTs following the upcoming trials, the subcontractor would be expected to provide the UK government with an economic incentive aligned with the new offset policy-such as jobs or novel technologies-set out in the Defence Industrial Strategy, published in early September.
Debut at DSEI 2025 and Industry Signals
BLACKJAX’s public debut at DSEI 2025 in London coincided with a broader spotlight on tracked vehicle innovation. Soucy Defense highlighted its CRT footprint at the event, stating:
“A good day one #DSEI2025 #dseiuk2025 To meet us N2-220 #compositerubbertrack https://t.co/7yt1cfiDmC” – Soucy Defense, September 9, 2025.
The company also noted its role in the unveiling of Patria’s TRACKX at the same exhibition:
“Day 3 at #DSEI2025 🚀 Our #CompositeRubberTrack is making its mark on major platforms! Honored to join the unveiling of @group_patria new #TRACKX. Don’t miss the #ATV-check it out at booth N9-220. #defence #innovation pic.twitter.com/LQabye913X” – Soucy Defense, September 11, 2025.
Adoption Beyond the UK: A Proven Path
CRTs are not new to the market. European forces have already fielded them, including the Dutch CV90s under a 2020 contract with BAE Systems, following Norway’s use of CRT-equipped CV90s in Afghanistan. New-generation platforms are joining the trend as well, such as Patria’s TRACKX armoured personnel carrier, which was unveiled at DSEI 2025 on the same day as BLACKJAX.
What Happens Next
The British Army’s CRT evaluation will commence at the beginning of December. While AJAX remains the potential upgrade candidate, the current application is confined to the BLACKJAX demonstrator. Pending trial outcomes, the Ministry of Defence will decide whether to proceed with CRT integration, which would carry industrial implications under the UK’s offset and defence industrial policies.
Conclusion
The forthcoming trial marks a critical step in determining whether composite rubber tracks can enhance the British Army’s tracked vehicle fleet. With 589 AJAX vehicles progressing toward initial operating capability before the end of this year, the results could influence both future platform performance and the UK’s defence industrial posture.
