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UK Veterans Launch Class Action Against 3M Over Defective Combat Earplugs

Group lawsuit alleges hearing damage and mental health issues from faulty earplugs supplied to British military over two decades.

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The earplugs were used in combat operations and training. Up to 400,000 sets were bought by the MoD
Dave Combe initially served from 1989 to 1995 and again from 1999 to 2005 taking part in tours to Iraq and Sierra Leone (Photo: Dave Combe)

Overview

  • KP Law has initiated a no-win, no-fee class action inviting UK veterans and active service members to seek compensation from 3M.
  • The lawsuit follows 3M's $6 billion settlement in the US for similar claims by 240,000 military personnel, finalized in 2023.
  • 3M supplied an estimated 400,000 earplugs to UK forces between 2003 and 2023, with allegations that the company knowingly sold defective products.
  • Affected personnel report severe hearing loss, tinnitus, and related mental health challenges, with some already compensated by the UK Ministry of Defence.
  • The Ministry of Defence has signaled it will not oppose claims extending further back, as scrutiny over procurement practices intensifies.