The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment is trialling bespoke camouflage for horses during exercises at Longmoor Training Area in Hampshire. The Ministry of Defence says the trials examine mounted reconnaissance, mobility in difficult terrain, concealment, sustainment and equine welfare. The MOD also noted allied experience — including US expeditionary mounted and pack-horse capabilities used after 9/11 — as a point of reference for the trials.
UK Trials Camouflage for Horses as Military Explores Mounted Capabilities
(SSgt Donald C Todd/MOD via SWNS)
The UK armed forces are testing bespoke camouflage for horses as part of wider trials to assess how mounted units might support operations in austere or difficult terrain.
Trials At Longmoor
The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment used its annual Summer Camp at Longmoor Training Area in Hampshire to trial tailor-made concealment for horses and to rehearse cavalry skills under realistic conditions. Newly released images show troops and animals taking part in the exercises.
What The MOD Says
"Soldiers are exploring mounted reconnaissance, mobility in difficult terrain, concealment, sustainment and equine welfare, drawing inspiration from allied nations that continue to employ horses in operational environments."
The Ministry of Defence noted that allied forces — including the United States — maintain expeditionary mounted and pack-horse capabilities for use in austere environments. The MOD pointed to post-9/11 operations in Afghanistan, where special forces used mounted and pack-horse methods in certain terrain.
(SSgt Donald C Todd/MOD via SWNS)
Why Horses?
Proponents say mounted platforms can offer quiet mobility, reduced logistical demands and access to terrain that vehicles cannot easily traverse. The current UK tests aim to establish whether modern concealment and welfare practices can make horses a practical option for specific niche roles, such as reconnaissance or movement across rough ground.
(SSgt Donald C Todd/MOD via SWNS)
This report originally appeared on Talker.
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