Tel Aviv: The new advanced Israeli Defence Forces’ (IDF) Eitan APC is now better protected with an advanced version of the Israeli developed ‘Iron Fist’ active protection system.
The Israeli Ministry of Defence Tank and APC Directorate, the IDF Ground Forces, and the Elbit Systems Land Division jointly have recently completed a successful series of ‘Iron Fist’ Active Protection System tests. During the tests the system deployed on the ‘Eitan’ APCs intercepted anti-tank threats in various challenging scenarios.
The ‘Iron Fist’ system developed by Elbit Systems is an advanced active protection system that provides 360-degree coverage against multi-range threats in open and urban environments. 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.
Head of the Defence Tank and APC Directorate in the Israel Ministry of Defence, Brigadier General Oren Giber said that 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.
“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 Iron Fist will substantially improve the protection of the Eitan APC and enhance the vehicle’s manoeuvrability in combat while ‘protecting combat soldiers.”
IDF Ground Forces Chief of Staff, Brig. Gen. Aviram Sela said that he Iron Fist system is part of the IDF Ground Forces’ efforts to enhance protection measures for forces on the battlefield.
“The system will expand the operational capabilities of the ‘Eitan’ wheeled APC and D9 bulldozers combat teams. This series of successful tests is a significant milestone in the joint development process for the Ground Forces, the Ministry of Defence, and Elbit Systems.”
General Manager of Elbit Systems Land, Yehuda (Udi) Vered said that the iron fist is a significant contribution to force structure build-up, to the safety of the crew and the continuity of the mission.
“The Iron Fist Active Protection System is unique, being a lightweight system that can be installed on a variety of fighting vehicles such as armoured personnel carriers, bulldozers, and more.״
-The writer is an Israel-based freelance journalist. The views expressed are of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of Raksha Anirveda
