weeks. The ‘real-world’ simulation uses data collected from field activities to precisely recreate the correct inputs. Millbrook’s team can also collect data from operational vehicles, allowing specific operational scenarios to be recreated within a compressed timescale, all in carefully controlled laboratory conditions.

Next to the Component Test Laboratory is a Systems Test Laboratory, where the driver comfort of a heavy duty truck is currently being evaluated. Seats from the vehicle are also being tested for durability, using the correct material from military uniforms combined with grit from desert operations.

Next to the automated robot arm that conducts this test, a smaller automated test rig is operating the hazard warning switch from a fast 4WD vehicle. Apparently Military Police and similar operations place considerable stress on this component because it is used many times a day, when often it is designed for commercial use a few times a year. “By investigating when and how a module fails, we can suggest simple upgrades that will provide the durability needed for military applications,” says Bryan. This type of

testing is particularly important when re-rolling a vehicle. “We’ve seen excellent vehicles coming out of Western territories such as Germany and Northern Ireland that have failed in desert operations because a few assemblies can’t take the increased vibration, heat or dust. Investigating and solving these failures - preferably before the vehicle is re-assigned - can substantially increase field reliability and help to extend the vehicle design’s operational life,” says Bryan.

Protecting the soldier
After many years of Crown Immunity, focussing vehicle design on excellence in the field, the MoD is now rightly proud of its commitment to providing a safer working environment for its personnel during the majority of their working lives: outside the field of conflict. One of the areas where the MoD is ahead even of civilian truck operators is in compliance with a recently introduced European health and safety directive that limits the vibration dose that can be received by employees.