As part of the modernization and enhancement of its armored capabilities, the U.S. Army unveiled last week the M2A4E1 combat vehicle, a new variant of the Bradley equipped with the Iron Fist-Light Decoupled active protection system. These armored vehicles were acquired thanks to resources allocated following the donation of over 200 M2A2 ODS Bradleys to Ukraine.
The Iron Fist-Light Decoupled (IF-LD) active protection system is a joint development between General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems and IMI Systems. According to the manufacturer, the IF-LD provides 360-degree protection for short-range scenarios, both in open terrain and urban environments.
Due to its detection components, which include a search and track radar and an infrared sensor, the Iron Fist mounted on the M2A4E1 Bradley minimizes the system’s dimensions. The configuration of the Iron Fist Light Decoupled facilitates its rapid integration into all types of combat vehicles, while also opening up new possibilities for upgrading platforms with several years of service where size, weight, and power limitations pose a challenge.
The M2A4 variant is the latest evolution of the Bradley infantry fighting vehicle, an initiative stemming from evaluations conducted after operational deployments over the past decades. The A4 variant was conceived to increase mobility, improve the weight-power ratio of the armored vehicle, while retaining enhancements in protection and firepower.
BAE Systems highlighted that “…The Bradley A4 includes improved mobility with increased engine power to provide rapid movement in response to combat situations or other adversities. Improvements in the survivability of fire suppression components and the inhibitor of improvised explosive devices (IED) reduce the likelihood of system detection. Additionally, the enhanced computer system increases situational awareness for soldiers. Improvements in onboard diagnostic systems provide greater fault detection and isolation capability, aiding in keeping the Bradley Fighting Vehicle in the fight.”
The modification of the Bradley A4 involves the installation of a new Cummins VTA903E-T675 8-cylinder diesel engine with a capacity of 675 horsepower, a new HMPT-800-3ECB hydraulic transmission, and enhancements in its power generation and cooling systems aimed at facilitating the adoption of the Iron Fist-Light Decoupled active protection system (IFLD).
Part of the improvements in the A4 series of the Bradley aimed at increasing crew situational awareness. This includes an improved wide-angle driver vision system, enhanced Force XXI battle system, integration of the Below (FBCB2) software that improves the identification of friendly and enemy vehicles, among others. Greater network connectivity and smart displays were also provided.
The M2A4 Bradley also received lightweight tracks, new shock absorbers and suspension, and stiffer torsion bars. This increased the ground clearance from 380 to 510 millimeters, which not only implies mobility improvements but also enhances crew vehicle protection against anti-tank mines.
The U.S. Army’s Acquisition Objective is for 731 A4 specimens, armored vehicles that will be allocated to equip four Armored Brigade Combat Teams, a brigade stored in Army Prepositioned Stocks to support the European Deterrence Initiative requirements, and additional vehicles for the Training and Doctrine Command. It’s worth noting that the Bradley vehicle family modification line for the U.S. Army encompasses 3,331 vehicles in its three variants: A4, A3, and Operation Desert Storm Situational Awareness (ODS-SA). The latter version was delivered to Ukraine.
Cover Image: US Army – PEO Ground Combat Systems
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