West Midlands Police officers are now among the first in the country to be equipped with a cutting-edge new taser model, marking a significant upgrade in the force's non-lethal capabilities. The rollout of the Axon Taser 10 (T10) represents a major technological advancement aimed at bolstering efforts to protect both police personnel and the communities they serve.
A Major Step Forward in Police Technology
The introduction of the T10 follows approval from the Home Secretary in October, officially replacing the ageing X2 model which had been in service for eight years. Force bosses have highlighted that this new device constitutes a substantial leap forward, as previous taser models were limited to just two cartridges. In contrast, the innovative T10 can fire up to ten single-shot cartridges without requiring a reload during an incident.
This enhanced capacity allows officers to be more precise in their application and provides greater opportunities to safely control a subject without having to escalate to higher, potentially more dangerous, levels of force. The operational benefits are designed to improve outcomes during volatile situations.
Extended Range and Improved De-escalation
Another critical feature of the new T10 taser is its significantly extended operational range. The device operates effectively at distances of up to 45 feet, which is double the optimum range of the previous models used by the force. This increased distance allows officers to manage potential threats from a safer position, thereby substantially improving the chances of achieving a peaceful de-escalation during confrontations.
The deployment supports the force's ongoing commitment to employing technology that prioritises safety and transparency in all interactions with the public.
Commitment to Safety and Accountability
Simon Foster, the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner, has publicly endorsed the new equipment. "I am committed to ensuring that West Midlands Police has access to the most advanced technology to keep our communities and our officers safe," he stated.
He further elaborated on the T10's advantages, noting, "This new more accurate and effective T10 taser represents a significant leap forward in de-escalation capability, community and officer safety and public accountability. Critically, this device provides more data than ever before, allowing for greater transparency, because the use of force must be appropriate, lawful and proportionate at all times."
Commissioner Foster also emphasised the rigorous oversight that will accompany the use of the new tasers. "My office and I will continue to ensure the use of Taser is subject to rigorous internal governance and external scrutiny by our community-led panels, so that public trust and confidence remain at the heart of West Midlands policing," he affirmed.
Comprehensive Rollout and Training Programme
The implementation of the new T10 tasers has been supported by an extensive logistical and training operation. This involved a comprehensive upgrade to over thirty armouries across the West Midlands region to properly store and maintain the new devices.
Specialised training for the specially trained officers authorised to carry tasers began earlier this month. This crucial instruction is being conducted at the force's dedicated Tally Ho! Tactical Training Centre, ensuring all personnel are fully proficient in the safe and effective use of the advanced new technology before it is deployed on active duty.
