The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has officially acknowledged that blast waves from British-issued heavy weapons may be causing mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) in service personnel. According to Lieutenant Colonel James Mitchell, a neurologist with the Royal Army Medical Service, repeated exposure to “low-level blasts” from weapons such as mortars, anti-tank systems and heavy machine guns could be damaging soldiers’ brains over time.
The admission follows a growing body of research linking blast overpressure to microscopic brain damage. Mitchell warned that thousands of troops and veterans may already be affected. The symptoms of mTBI, which often overlap with PTSD, include chronic headaches, memory loss, personality changes and sensitivity to light and sound.
Academic research funded by the MoD is ongoing. Professor Lisa Hill at the University of Birmingham is exploring blood-based biomarkers to improve diagnosis. Meanwhile, Professor Karen Mullinger at the University of Nottingham is using advanced OPM-MEG brain scans to study the neurological impact of blast exposure in real time.
The findings may lead to stricter limits on training exposure or redesigns of the most damaging weapon systems.
Read the full MoD statement via ITV News.
What Is Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) refers to damage to the brain caused by a sudden external force, such as a blow to the head, a fall, or exposure to blast waves in military settings. TBIs can range from mild (commonly referred to as concussions) to severe, where there may be prolonged unconsciousness, permanent cognitive impairment, or even death. In military personnel, TBIs are increasingly linked not only to physical impacts but also to repeated exposure to shockwaves from weapons such as mortars, anti-tank missiles and machine guns. These blasts can penetrate the skull and cause microscopic damage to brain tissue, blood vessels and neurons without any visible external injury.
Symptoms and Long-Term Effects of TBI
The symptoms of TBI can vary significantly depending on the severity and nature of the injury. Mild TBIs may cause headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and sensitivity to light or sound. More severe cases may result in memory loss, mood changes, sleep disturbances, depression and cognitive impairment. In many cases, TBI symptoms overlap with those of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), making diagnosis more complex. Without early detection and intervention, TBIs can lead to long-term neurological decline and significantly affect a person’s quality of life. Research is ongoing into better diagnostic tools, including blood-based biomarkers and advanced brain scans, to help identify and manage TBI more effectively.
Legal Support for Troops and Veterans Affected by TBI
If you are a current or former member of the Armed Forces and believe you have suffered a brain injury due to exposure to British military weapon systems, you may have a legal claim for compensation. This includes soldiers exposed during training exercises or combat deployments, where repeated blast exposure has resulted in lasting symptoms or a diagnosis of traumatic brain injury. R. James Hutcheon Solicitors are now taking instructions from military personnel and veterans who may have been affected.
We have specialist experience in complex military injury claims, including brain injury, PTSD, and delayed diagnosis cases. To discuss your circumstances in confidence, please contact our team by calling 0151 724 7121 or visiting www.hutcheonlaw.co.uk. Alternatively, complete our secure online form and we will get back to you promptly.
Let us help you get the support, recognition and compensation you deserve.
Military Hearing Loss: Causes, Diagnosis, and Compensation for Noise-Induced Damage
