British media released a video on 24/7 showing a Bulldog armored personnel carrier speeding through a narrow road with numerous cars parked at Swinton barracks. This facility is part of the Tidworth garrison in Perham Down village, Wiltshire county. The vehicle swerved, colliding with multiple parked cars.
The driver reportedly floored the accelerator, pushing the 15-ton Bulldog to approximately 51 km/h. At least one small truck and an SUV sustained severe damage, with total estimated damages around 100,000 GBP (135,000 USD).
Military sources indicated the two soldiers had been drinking outside the barracks before returning around 1:00 AM on 24/7. One soldier drove the Bulldog, while the other accompanied him, as this vehicle typically requires a two-person crew.
Following the incident, the intoxicated soldier then parked the Bulldog neatly in its designated spot before calmly returning to his living quarters. Images from the scene showed the armored vehicle parked properly and undamaged, with nearby cars also appearing intact. No injuries were reported in the incident.
Authorities arrested the driver in his room at dawn after other soldiers discovered the scene of chaos. The accompanying soldier was also detained.
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The armored vehicle was parked neatly after the incident. *Photo: Sun* |
A British army spokesperson confirmed the arrest of two soldiers but declined to provide further information. "We require military personnel to meet the highest standards. We will not comment further while the investigation is underway," the spokesperson stated.
The FV430 Mk3 Bulldog is an armored personnel carrier introduced in late 2006. It is based on the FV430 infantry fighting vehicle series, which the UK has used since the 1960s. The vehicle features additional armor to counter hollow-charge warheads from RPG-7 anti-tank guns, having served in anti-insurgency operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Engine and control system upgrades allow Bulldog vehicles to reach a maximum speed of up to 72 km/h.
Huyen Le (According to Sun, RT)
