Iron Fist supply grows

Land January 9, 2026

Elbit Systems has secured new contracts totaling $150 million for the supply of its Iron Fist Active Protection System (APS), marking a significant expansion of the technology within European NATO territories.

These contracts, awarded by BAE Systems Hägglunds, involve the integration of the Iron Fist system onto CV90 Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs) operated by various European member states. For professionals within the UK defence supply chain, the involvement of BAE Systems Hägglunds – a major subsidiary of BAE Systems – highlights the importance of cross-border industrial collaboration and the increasing demand for advanced survivability suites on modern armoured platforms.

The contract award follows a critical technological milestone achieved in September 2025 during a high-profile live-fire demonstration in Europe. During these trials, the Iron Fist system successfully intercepted more than a dozen 120mm kinetic energy (KE) armour-piercing fin-stabilised discarding sabot (APFSDS) tank rounds. This performance is notable as kinetic energy threats represent one of the most difficult challenges for active protection systems to overcome. The validation of the system’s effectiveness against these high-velocity rounds, as well as its ability to counter anti-tank guided missiles, unmanned aerial systems (UAS), and loitering munitions, positions the Iron Fist as a versatile solution for contemporary high-intensity conflict environments.

The Iron Fist is a “hard-kill” system characterized by its low volume, weight, and power requirements, facilitating easier integration into both new-build vehicles and existing fleets. Its 360-degree protective envelope is designed to operate effectively in both open terrain and complex urban settings. For UK-based sub-contractors and technology providers, the proliferation of this technology across NATO fleets suggests a growing market for auxiliary components, including high-precision sensors, radar modules, and automated countermeasure delivery systems. As Western militaries continue to prioritise crew protection and platform durability, the demand for modular APS solutions is expected to remain a central feature of land vehicle procurement strategies.

This $150 million investment reinforces the strategic partnership between Elbit Systems and BAE Systems, providing long-term visibility for the manufacturing and maintenance of these advanced defensive systems. The project underscores a broader trend in NATO defence policy focused on upgrading legacy equipment with cutting-edge electronic and physical protection measures. For businesses seeking to engage with prime contractors on major vehicle programmes, the successful deployment of Iron Fist on the CV90 fleet serves as a clear indicator of the technical standards and operational capabilities required in the current European security landscape.

Image: Elbit

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