The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has initiated an urgent recall of 120,000 Enhanced Combat Body Armour (ECBA) plates following the discovery of microscopic cracks during routine testing.

These plates, first introduced more than three decades ago, are primarily used by the Royal Navy and in low-threat environments by the British Army.

The recall was ordered by Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard, who emphasized that the government will not tolerate any risk to personnel safety.

The replacement process, initially scheduled for completion in 2027, has been expedited to address the identified defects promptly.

The ECBA system includes small front and back plates designed to protect vital organs.

While it has been replaced by more advanced armour in frontline army units, the ECBA remains in use within the navy and among marines due to its lighter weight, which reduces drowning risks.

It is also utilized by guard units and during training exercises.

Approximately ten percent of the ECBA plates have been found to be defective.

The MoD has suspended the use of these plates in all but unavoidable circumstances.

Each plate is undergoing testing to determine its fitness for continued use.

The MoD aims to replace the defective armour without incurring additional costs by promptly testing and returning safe plates to service.

Labour Party officials have criticized the previous Conservative government for delaying the replacement of the ageing body armour, a decision made to achieve cost savings.

They argue that this delay has compromised troop safety.

The MoD has stated that ECBA use has been suspended except in unavoidable situations as a precautionary measure after regular testing identified the issue.

A spokesperson affirmed that the government will not accept compromises regarding the safety of military personnel.