U.S. Army deploys Elbit's Iron Fist defense system against missiles and drones
The U.S. Army has begun fielding the first Bradley Fighting Vehicles equipped with Elbit’s Iron Fist active protection system, following a $228 million contract awarded in January.
Elbit Systems’ Iron Fist active protection system is entering operational service with the U.S. Army, as the Israeli defense company moves forward with a $228 million contract to equip Bradley Fighting Vehicles with technology designed to intercept incoming missiles, rockets and drones.
The Army’s 1st Cavalry Division has begun fielding the M2A4E1 Bradley, the first version of the armored vehicle equipped with Iron Fist.
The 6th Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, based at Fort Hood, Texas, is receiving the upgraded vehicles. The Army has not disclosed how many Bradleys are being delivered to the unit or when the initial fielding will be completed, leaving the pace of broader deployment uncertain.
Iron Fist is designed to detect and destroy incoming threats before they strike an armored vehicle. Radar and infrared sensors positioned around the turret identify approaching weapons, while explosive interceptors detonate near the target. Their combustible casing is intended to reduce the risk of fragmentation injuring nearby infantry, although it does not eliminate that risk.
The system addresses a growing concern for militaries operating armored vehicles in environments where anti-tank missiles and drones can inflict significant losses. The war in Ukraine has demonstrated the vulnerability of armored platforms to these threats, adding urgency to efforts to improve vehicle defenses.
Elbit received a $37 million order for Iron Fist in 2024, followed by a $228 million contract awarded in January 2026 to supply systems for Bradley upgrades under a program led by General Dynamics. The contract creates a framework for further installations across the fleet, although the Army has not disclosed the number of vehicles to be equipped or a schedule for the wider rollout.
Elbit is supplying the protection system rather than serving as the prime integrator for the broader Bradley upgrade program. Revenue from the $228 million contract is expected to be recognized as systems are delivered and integrated, but the specific timing has not been disclosed.
The M2A4E1 also includes an improved high-definition thermal gunner’s sight and a new environmental control unit for the crew and passengers. These upgrades accompany the addition of Iron Fist, which is intended to provide a further layer of defense against incoming weapons.
