HSE Authorises Crown Censure of MOD and Prosecution of Defence Contractor Over Fatal Tank Explosion
07.07.2026 - 00:27:28 | boerse-global.de
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has authorised a Crown Censure against the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and launched a prosecution against a major defence contractor, following a 2017 tank explosion that killed two soldiers and injured two others. The enforcement action sends a clear signal to UK employers — including those with Crown immunity — about the consequences of systemic safety failures.
The Castlemartin Range Incident
The explosion occurred on June 14, 2017, at the Castlemartin Range in Pembrokeshire, involving a Challenger 2 tank. Corporal Darren Neilson, 31, and Corporal Matthew Hatfield, 27, were killed in the blast, while two other personnel sustained injuries.
Investigations found that the tank's main gun was fired without the bolt vent axial (BVA) assembly in place. The missing component allowed hot gases to escape into the turret, igniting propellant charges stored inside. A 2018 inquest identified multiple safety failings, including unclear operational drills and a range officer who was reportedly unaware of the tank's specific state at the time of firing.
Crown Censure and Prosecution
The HSE has authorised a Crown Censure against the MOD — the highest level of sanction the regulator can impose on a government department. Because the MOD holds Crown immunity, it cannot face criminal prosecution. Instead, a formal hearing will be held where the MOD must acknowledge the safety breaches.
Alongside the censure, the HSE has authorised the prosecution of Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land Ltd (RBSL) under Section 3 of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act. This section requires employers to ensure that people not in their employment are not exposed to risks to their health or safety.
Safety Revisions After the Explosion
Following the 2017 incident, the MOD introduced a series of safety measures. These included a ban on 120mm training ammunition, a temporary halt to live firing exercises, and updated procedural manuals. Equipment modifications were also made, such as a red "Do not use" cover designed to signal when a vehicle is not ready for operation.
However, questions have been raised about the length of the investigation and whether past recommendations were fully implemented. A formal hearing for the Crown Censure is expected to follow the HSE's announcement.
Royal Tank Regiment Activity
The legal developments come alongside high-profile activity for the Royal Tank Regiment. On July 6, 2026, King Charles visited the regiment at the Tank Museum in Bovington for his first visit as Colonel-in-Chief. During the visit, the King inspected the new Challenger 3 tank and took a ride in a Challenger 2 — the same model involved in the 2017 incident. He also presented service medals, including the Wider Service Medal for operations in Estonia and awards for long service and good conduct.
