The US Army will equip the Bradley BMP with the high-tech Iron Fist active defence system, which destroys shells before they get close to the vehicle

Bradley infantry fighting vehicles, which have long proved their effectiveness in real combat operations, including in Ukraine, will become even more modern, thanks to the Iron Fist active defence system.

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BAE Systems has signed a $191.2m contract with Israeli company IMI Systems and American General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, which have developed the Iron Fist system. The Iron Fist system is designed to protect the BMP and its crew from grenades, anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) and other high-speed weapons.

Iron Fist is much more effective than standard dynamic defence units, it even prevents the vehicle from being hit, as highly sensitive sensors and radars detect the threat in advance and automatically fire small interceptor missiles that destroy the flying projectiles at a safe distance from the combat vehicle.

The contract is for three years and is due to be completed by 2027. The project is partially funded by military aid to Ukraine, and some of the Iron Fist-equipped Bradley's will be added to the U.S. Army's equipment stockpile, replacing the M2A2 Bradley transferred to Ukraine.

Source: U.S. Department of Defence