It does not replace a weapon system currently in service, but adds a potent new capability to the Infantry's arsenal, which has already been enhanced through programmes to provide night sights, under slung grenade launchers and the state of the art SA80A2 assault rifle.

Lord Drayson said: "I am pleased to announce the award of the contract for the demonstration and manufacture of the Anti-Structures Munition to Dynamit Nobel Defence. The contract is valued at 40m pound and includes provision of combat weapons, training systems and contractor logistic support for the first five years.

"The Anti-Structures Munition will provide our Armed Forces with a new capability. It will enable our infantry to more precisely defeat hardened structures such as buildings or bunkers - improving the safety of UK forces, reducing the danger to civilians in the area and the damage caused to neighbouring buildings.

"It is essential that we provide our Armed Forces with the tools they need to get the job done as safely, precisely and quickly as possible. This munition will help do just that." Dynamit Nobel Defence was selected following a rigorous competition which included full test firings of the weapon and soldier trials. The system is planned to be in service by the end of 2009.

Note

The Anti-Structures Munition project is being managed by the Infantry Guided Weapons Integrated Project Team (IPT) within the Defence Procurement Agency (DPA) at MOD Abbey Wood. The in service capability will be managed by the Defence General Munitions IPT within the Defence Logistics Organisation (DLO) at MOD Andover

Related Links
UK MOD
Dynamit Nobel Defence