The US Army Requirements Oversight Council has given a positive decision for the installation of Iron Fist Light (IFL) active protection system (APS) on the Bradley fighting vehicle.

The team providing the system comprises General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems (GD-OTS), Elbit Systems and Israel Military Industries (IMI).

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

The decision will move the team to the second phase of APS development for the US Army’s Bradley vehicles.

General Dynamics ordnance and tactical systems armament and platform systems vice-president and general manager Steve Elgin said: “We are excited to move into Phase II and bring the vast capabilities of our active protection system to the Bradley fighting vehicle. We look forward to continuing to partner with the army on advancing this important technology, as well as enhancing integration capabilities across multiple army platforms.”

“In close-range scenarios, it offers 360° protection coverage in open terrain and urban environments.”

The Iron Fist APS, developed by IMI, uses independent optical sensors and tracking radar for accurate threat detection and situational awareness.

The system can also deploy countermeasure munitions to defeat threats such as guided missiles and tank rounds at a safe distance from the defended combat vehicles.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

In close-range scenarios, it offers 360° protection coverage in open terrain and urban environments.

Elbit Systems land division executive vice-president and general manager Yehuda (Udi) Vered said: “We are proud to support the US Army and cooperate with GD-OTS in delivering the Iron Fist Light, a sophisticated protection system that will enhance the capabilities of a variety of army platforms while defeating a wide range of threats.”

Development and deployment of active protection capabilities for the Bradleys is part of an urgent need identified by the US Army.

Army Technology Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Army Technology Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact across the defence sector.

Excellence in Action
SMARTSHOOTER’s SMASH AI-enabled fire control systems are turning standard rifles into precision counter drone and small arms platforms. Discover how SMASH is redefining dismounted force protection, accuracy, and ethical AI use on today’s battlefield and why it has won the Innovation award.

Discover the Impact