Elbit Systems Win $300 Million Contract to Equip European Armoured Vehicles with Combat Systems

Defense News ,Israel & Europe :- In a significant development, Israeli company Elbit Systems has clinched a contract worth approximately USD 300 million to provide weapons, reconnaissance, driving, and situational awareness systems for around 230 armored vehicles to an undisclosed European customer. The contract spans six years and encompasses custom design, production, lifecycle maintenance, and complete in-country support, according to Elbit Systems.

Although Elbit Systems did not reveal the identity of the European customer, Defense Industry Europe disclosed that on February 19, the Austrian Ministry of Defense signed a contract with General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) for 225 Pandur EVO 6×6 armored vehicles.

Bezhalel (Butzi) Machlis, President and CEO of Elbit Systems, expressed, “This contract underscores the customer’s high level of satisfaction with our systems and solutions already in service. It also reinforces Elbit Systems’ leadership in the armored vehicle market, underpinned by our commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions that meet the requirements of our customers.”

Elbit Systems specializes in advanced combat vehicle systems designed to enhance the mission readiness of crews operating tanks and armored vehicles. One of their groundbreaking technologies is the See-through-Armor (STA) system, a panoramic observation system that allows operators to perceive their environment through a single image. Using algorithms that electronically combine imagery from video cameras installed around the vehicle, STA provides a seamless 360-degree real-time panoramic view.

Taking aerial technology into the closed-hatched armored vehicle environment, Elbit Systems introduces IronVision. This technology generates an image that enables the crew to "see through" armored shields, overcoming visibility limitations and enhancing mission efficiency and safety. Real-time, zero-latency, high-resolution video is transmitted to the Helmet-Mounted Displays (HMD), offering the crew a natural and conformal view of the vehicle surroundings. Additionally, Elbit Systems provides Comprehensive Protection for Fighting Vehicles with 360-degree coverage, supporting effective responses to laser and radar-guided threats.

Elbit Systems’ Laser Warning System (E-LAWS) and Threat Detection System (TDS) accurately detect, categorize, and pinpoint laser sources, such as rangefinders, designators, beam riders, infrared illuminators, and trainers. The Multi-Threat Detection System (MTDS) expands this capability to radar/RF sources, ensuring accurate angle of arrival (AoA), high detection probability, and a low false-alarm rate.

A suite of fully integrated Fire Control Systems (FCS) by Elbit Systems offers unparalleled performance in battlefield conditions. These systems feature long-range capabilities, day and night operation, and high first-round hit probability against moving targets even on-the-move. The systems range from simplified FCS for one-man light turrets to high-performance hunter-killer FCS for front-line Main Battle Tanks (MBTs).

The Electric Gun and Turret Drive System (EGTDS) is another innovation by Elbit Systems, significantly enhancing turret stabilization and firing on the move. This system provides smooth target tracking at high speeds and in all firing positions, even for heavy guns and turrets. Furthermore, the EGTDS improves safety by eliminating the need for highly flammable hydraulic fluid used in conventional systems. The Driver Thermal Vision System, comprising a thermal imaging camera based on an uncooled detector and a ruggedized LCD display installed inside the vehicle, adds an extra layer of safety and operational efficiency.

In conclusion, Elbit Systems' latest contract represents a significant stride in the field of advanced combat vehicle systems. The company's cutting-edge technologies not only meet the rigorous requirements of modern armored vehicles but also enhance the safety, efficiency, and overall mission readiness of the crews operating them. This multi-million dollar deal reinforces Elbit Systems' position as a leader in the armored vehicle market, showcasing their commitment to delivering innovative solutions that leave a lasting impact on defense capabilities.