Elbit Systems to supply IFLD system for Israeli Eitan combat vehicles

Elbit Systems has been selected by the Israeli Ministry of Defense (IMOD) to provide its Iron Fist Light Decoupled (IFLD) active protection system (APS).

The IFLD will be installed on the Eitan eight-wheeled armoured fighting vehicle (AFV) and the D-9 bulldozer.

Elbit Systems was selected to equip the Israeli Defense Forces’ (IDF) vehicles following a competitive bid. The company is in talks with the IMOD to finalise the contract.

Elbit Systems Land Division general manager Yehuda (Udi) Vered said: “We are proud to have been selected by the IMOD to provide the IDF with such an important operational capability.

“The decision of the IMOD to prefer IFLD adds to the growing interest in this APS by many modern armed forces who seek to enhance protection capabilities for their AFVs.”

IFLD is designed to protect combat vehicles from incoming threats.

The system detects and defeats threats using optical sensors, tracking radar, launchers and countermeasure munitions.

It launches a small warhead and initiates it at a safe distance from the protected vehicles.

IFLD has the ability to provide 360° protection coverage in both open terrain and urban environments.

Due to its low size and weight, high performance, and ease of integration, the system can serve as a suitable APS for any combat vehicle, Elbit Systems added.

The US Army has also decided recently to procure the IFLD solution for installation on the Bradley AFV.

According to a report in Jane’s in May, Elbit Systems is expected to receive contracts from the US Army and the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) to supply the IFLD systems.

The system can be configured for armoured platforms ranging from light 4×4 vehicles up to medium and heavy AFV.