Dutch CV90s set for APS

BAE Systems will test and verify the Iron Fist Active Protection System (APS) on the Netherlands’ CV90 Infantry Fighting Vehicles under a contract announced in December.

Developed by IMI Systems, Iron Fist is an automated system that uses a radar to detect and track threats and then takes countermeasure action to eliminate the threat. It is designed to intercept incoming rocket-propelled grenades, anti-tank missiles, and other threats to increase crew and vehicle survivability.

BAE Systems will lead the APS integration on the Dutch CV90s and carry out the future installation of the system.

Hans de Goeij, project manager at the Netherlands Defence Materiel Organisation, Ministry of Defence, said: ‘During this test phase we will pre-qualify the active system against our threat specification, and together with our partners analyse system safety and prepare for its integration onto our CV9035NL vehicles.

‘We expect to make a decision on the next phase by early 2018. With Iron Fist, the Netherlands is expected to become the first NATO country with an APS of its kind on combat vehicles.’