Bradley infantry fighting vehicle

The United States Army has unveiled the M2A4E1 Bradley infantry fighting vehicle, the most advanced version of the Bradley family.

This vehicle is designed to transport and protect infantry while delivering powerful fire support on the battlefield.

The upgraded vehicle builds upon the existing M2A4 platform and incorporates the Iron Fist Active Protection System (APS).

The Iron Fist APS is designed to detect, track and neutralize incoming threats such as anti-tank guided missiles and RPGs before impact.

Mobility, firepower and squad support

The M2A4E1 is engineered to carry a nine-soldier rifle squad, providing mobility, firepower and protection against small-arms fire and explosive threats.

It retains its M242 25-millimeter automatic cannon as the primary weapon, featuring a dual-feed system that allows crews to select between armor-piercing and high-explosive ammunition.

Typically armed with 300 ready rounds and 600 stowed, the Bradley ensures rapid response capability and extended battlefield endurance.

For additional firepower, the vehicle includes a coaxial M240C 7.62-millimeter machine gun with 2,200 rounds of ammunition.

For engaging heavily armored targets, the M2A4E1 is equipped with a Tube-Launched, Optically-Tracked, Wire-Guided (TOW) missile system, which fires TOW II missiles capable of destroying tanks and fortified positions.

The vehicle's improved gunner's sight enhances target acquisition and engagement accuracy, while an upgraded environmental control unit increases comfort for dismounted troops operating in extreme conditions.

Together, these systems give the M2A4E1 greater versatility and combat effectiveness in diverse operational environments.

Enhanced protection with Iron Fist

The Iron Fist APS represents a major leap in survivability for US armored forces.

The technology uses active electronically scanned array (AESA) radars and infrared cameras to detect incoming missiles or rockets.

Countermeasure launchers positioned around the turret deploy explosive interceptors to neutralize threats mid-flight.

This combination of radar detection and hard-kill interception offers a critical layer of defense against anti-tank guided missiles and rocket-propelled grenades.

The integration of Iron Fist on the M2A4E1 was made possible by the power and mobility upgrades introduced with the M2A4 base model.

The Bradley's aluminum hull, reinforced with steel applique armor, provides additional protection against mines and heavy-caliber rounds, including armor-piercing 14.5-by-114-millimeter ammunition.

Together, these improvements make the M2A4E1 one of the most survivable infantry fighting vehicles in service today.

The introduction of the M2A4E1 marks a significant step forward in the Army's modernization efforts, combining mobility, firepower and active protection to ensure US infantry remains capable and protected on the modern battlefield.