The US Army’s Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC), along with its US Army Research Development Engineering Command (RDECOM) partners, selected IMI Systems’ Iron Fist-based Active Protection System (APS) technologies. That reported by www.israeldefense.co.il.
This will demonstrate an implementation of the TARDEC led RDECOM effort toward Modular Active Protection Systems (MAPS) architecture including connectivity with MAPS central controller and software.
IMI Systems’ Active Protection Systems (APS) approach, in partnership with GD-OTS, increases the self-defense capability of the entire range of armored platforms, from light- and medium-weight Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs) to heavy Armored Fighting Vehicles (AFVs) and Main Battle Tanks (MBTs). The MAPS program seeks to eliminate barriers associated with the US fielding of APS through a modular and safe design that establishes the foundation to transition tailored capability integrated on any platform.
IMI’s APS vehicle portfolio is based on Iron Fist, designed for heavy AFVs and MBTs, and Iron Fist Light Configuration (IF-LC), a downscaled version of the Iron Fist designed for light to medium APCs and AFVs. The system’s hard-kill concept is based on intercepting the threat using a small warhead, initiated at a safe distance from the defended platform.
The Iron Fist and IF-LC technologies are able to provide 360-degree protection coverage for very close-range scenarios in both open field and urban environments. The System features a Situational Awareness capability to provide robust and reliable detection, accurate trajectory prediction, and short reaction time in all terrain environments.
The design of the IF-LC miniaturizes the dimensions of APS while maintaining combat efficacy and force protection. IF-LC’s scale facilitates rapid integration onto the full range of combat vehicles. Its dimensions open the possibility for equipping new light vehicles and medium vehicles with APS, as well as upgrading legacy platforms for which size, weight, and power constraints require maximum efficiency from an APS solution.
During recent months, IF-LC has passed rigorous internal IMI testing to verify its maturity and applicability to current requirements. The results confirmed the technological maturity of IF-LC and its readiness for deployment in the most challenging operational environments.
MAPS compliant technology will be demonstrated on a vehicle as part of the planned MAPS demonstrations.