VUE Delivers Bespoke Telematics Solution for UK Ministry of Defence Heavy Equipment Transporter Fleet

FTX Logistics Ltd have operated the Heavy Equipment Transporter (HET) service for the UK Ministry of Defence for over 20-years. FTX manages a fleet of 82 Heavy Equipment Transporters responsible for moving critical military assets, including the 72-tonne Challenger 2 Main Battle Tank, between military locations across the UK and Germany.

With a unique operational structure that links commercial logistics and defence capability, FTX have bases in Bulford and Catterick. FTX has established an exceptional safety record, earning 16 consecutive ROSPA Gold Awards with two Order of Distinction awards and recognition from the International Safety Council.

Challenges

Working with Heavy Equipment Transporters poses operational challenges as the vehicles are wide and transport high-value military assets through residential and military infrastructure, often as part of coordinated convoys. Drivers need exceptional visibility around their vehicles to navigate safely, whilst FTX needs robust incident documentation to support insurance claims and accountability.

The sensitive nature of transporting military equipment added further complexity. FTX required a camera and video telematics solution that could provide real-time fleet visibility and incident evidence whilst maintaining strict data security standards, appropriate for the Ministry of Defence operations. However, standard off-the-shelf systems could not meet these operational and security requirements.

Solutions

Since 2019, VUE has worked in partnership with FTX Logistics to design and implement one of the most intricate vehicle camera and telematics installations VUE has delivered. The bespoke system, fitted across the entire 82-vehicle HET fleet, provides exceptional visibility and data capture, tailored specifically to the demands of heavy military equipment transportation.

Each Heavy Equipment Transporter is equipped with a camera and sensor system with 360-degree visibility around the vehicle. The system includes multiple cameras displayed on an in-cab monitor, proximity sensors with driver alert systems, onboard storage for continuous footage recording, and GPS tracking with mobile connectivity for real-time location monitoring.

The integrated video management system coordinates all camera inputs and automatically triggers specific feeds based on driver actions such as indicating, reversing, or braking. All these attributes ensure drivers always have clear visibility for each manoeuvre they’re performing.

The system integrates with the VUEhub platform, providing FTX operations staff with real-time convoy tracking, fleet health monitoring, and instant access to incident footage. VUE implements robust cybersecurity measures and GDPR compliance protocols that ensure all footage and data remain secure - a non-negotiable requirement when handling the Ministry of Defence operations.

"The complexity of this installation cannot be understated," said a representative from FTX Logistics Ltd.

"VUE didn't just supply equipment; they engineered a solution that accounts for every operational scenario we face. The 360^° camera suite hugely reduces the blind spots, mitigating a number of risks, and increases our drivers' confidence when navigating narrow gaps and tight manoeuvres with these massive vehicles."

Benefits:

The VUE system has become integral to FTX's operational capability, delivering measurable benefits across safety, accountability, and efficiency.

Driver Safety and Confidence: The camera coverage eliminates blind spots on vehicles transporting 72-tonne tanks, whilst VUE sensors provide audible warnings for proximity hazards. Drivers can navigate complex routes and tight spaces with increased situational awareness.

Convoy Management: Through VUEhub's live tracking feature, FTX maintains visibility of vehicle locations and convoy movements until the responsibility transfers to the Ministry of Defence. The real-time oversight supports coordination across multiple HET movements and enables rapid response to operational changes.

Incident Evidence and Claims Management: Video footage provides evidence when incidents occur, supporting FTX's insurance claims and proving accountability. Once MOD takes control of transported assets, the documentation becomes invaluable.

"Having instant access to footage through VUEhub has fundamentally changed how we manage incidents and claims," noted FTX Logistics. "We can review what happened, when it happened, and provide evidence to insurers or MOD personnel within minutes. That capability alone justifies the investment."

The partnership between VUE and FTX Logistics demonstrates how bespoke camera and video solutions can address complex operational requirements in defence logistics. Designing a system tailored to the unique demands of Heavy Equipment Transporter operations and maintaining it through an ongoing partnership since 2019, VUE has supported FTX's mission to provide safe, accountable, and efficient transportation of critical military assets.

The system strengthens both operational capability and safety standards, enabling FTX's Army Sponsored Reservist drivers to execute their dual civilian-military roles with enhanced visibility, accountability, and confidence. As FTX continues to support the Ministry of Defence's logistics requirements, VUE's technology remains a cornerstone of their operational excellence.