Eitan to field alongside Namer
The Israel Defense Force unveiled its 8x8 Eitan (Hebrew for ‘steadfast’) APC demonstrator on 1 August 2016.
It is the first wheeled APC developed for the IDF by the MoD’s Tank Programme Administration (MANTAK) and is designed to replace some the army’s US-supplied tracked M113s.
The loss of M113s during recent combat operations, notably Operation Protective Edge in the Gaza Strip in July-August 2014, prompted calls from politicians, the media and others within Israel to provide better protection for its troops.
Eitan is expected to enter service from 2020. The army has an estimated 5,500 M113A1/A2 APCs, although most are
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
Canada’s Inkas to complete development of improved M1 MRAP in May
PT Sentra Surya Ekajaya’s P2 Tiger, the SCATA Mk1 and the Inkas M1 armoured personnel carriers are each built on the proven Celeris base, but all are still awaiting firm orders.
-
Greece opts for PULS long-range artillery as demand for capability surges
Greece’s selection of PULS makes it the sixth European country to choose the system and follows Sweden’s plan to buy HIMARS and Norway’s selection of Chunmoo artillery systems. The diverse choices for a similar capability highlight demand and a desire for European industrial capacity.
-
US Army calls for resupply platforms for the Mobile Tactical Cannon
The US Army is interested in “innovative, flexible and efficient” capabilities for large-scale combat operations, as well as more agile approaches to improve efficiency and reduce ammunition transfer time.