The Ministry of Defense Tank and APC Directorate, the IDF Ground Forces, and the Elbit Systems Land Division on Monday jointly announced the completion of a successful series of “Iron Fist” Active Protection System tests.
The defense system deployed to “Eitan” APCs intercepted anti-tank threats in various challenging scenarios. It’s intended to be part of the IDF Ground Forces’ efforts to enhance protection measures for forces on the battlefield.
The “Iron Fist” system was developed by Elbit Systems as an advanced active protection system to provide 360-degree coverage against multi-range threats in open and urban environments.
The system is unique, a lightweight system that can be installed on a variety of fighting vehicles such as armored personnel carriers, bulldozers, and more.
In addition to its defensive capabilities, the ”Iron Fist” provides APC teams with fire source location to close the fire circle in multi-threat combat arenas.
The system includes an electro-optic sensor suit, searching and tracking radar, and a reaction suit with launchers and interceptors, neutralizing threats at a safe distance from the APC.
“The Tank and APC Directorate is currently completing its preparation for the delivery of the self-developed Eitan advanced 8×8 wheeled APC to the IDF,” Head of the Defense Tank and APC Directorate in the Israel Ministry of Defense, Brigadier General Oren Giber said in a statement.
“The Iron Fist system is an important part of this project. It is currently in advanced stages of development and deployment to the ‘Eitan’ APC and the bulldozer, undergoing rigorous trials to ensure its suitability for the battlefield.”
The system is intended to substantially improve the protection of the Eitan APC and enhance the vehicle’s maneuverability in combat while protecting combat soldiers on the ground.
“This series of successful tests is a significant milestone in the joint development process for the Ground Forces, the Ministry of Defense, and Elbit Systems,” IDF Ground Forces Chief of Staff, Brig. Gen. Aviram Sela added.
“We are proud to provide the IDF with an advanced active protection technology, which is a significant contribution to force structure buildup, to the safety of the crew and the continuity of the mission,” General Manager of Elbit Systems Land, Yehuda (Udi) Vered said.
