IDF to equip combat engineering vehicles with Iron Fist active protection against anti-tank threats

The IDF Ground Forces Commander is advancing a plan to integrate the Iron Fist active protection system into heavy combat engineering vehicles and bulldozers, based on lessons from the October 7 attacks and the ensuing war. The plan also expands brigade-level stocks and emphasizes backup command-and-control systems.

IDF Ground Forces Commander Maj.-Gen. Nadav Lotan is advancing a series of major changes to Israel's ground forces based on lessons from the October 7 attacks and the ensuing war. The plan focuses on increasing the independence and operational continuity of brigade combat teams maneuvering deep inside enemy territory. At its center is a decision to integrate the Iron Fist active protection system into heavy combat engineering equipment and bulldozers, providing additional protection against anti-tank threats. The plan also expands brigade-level stocks of military equipment, ammunition, and weapons to reduce dependence on outside support, and emphasizes alternatives to digital systems, including backup command-and-control capabilities for communications disruptions. The Combat Engineering Corps is a key focus, particularly the number of heavy engineering vehicles. The IDF currently has some 450 heavy engineering vehicles, plus approximately 80 Indian-made vehicles. Heavy engineering vehicles proved critical in clearing routes into Gaza City, Khan Yunis, Rafah, and other areas, facing unprecedented threats including explosive devices, anti-tank missiles, drones, and mortar shells. Israel's enemies have destroyed 32 heavy engineering vehicles since October 7. The Iron Fist system, manufactured by Elbit Systems, combines radar and electro-optical sensors to detect and intercept incoming threats from a safe distance.